A day after Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) officially went on the market, speculation is mounting over potential buyers. Bengaluru-based business magnates Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha, and Ranjan Pai, chairman of the Manipal Education and Medical Group, are reportedly among the front-runners.
Local Connection Could Be Key
According to Times of India, any consortium bidding for the franchise would ideally include a figure with strong ties to Bengaluru to maintain a close connection with the passionate fanbase. Support from the city’s and state’s political and social circles is also seen as crucial in securing a successful bid.
Adar Poonawalla, CEO of Serum Institute of India, had earlier hinted at interest in the team. In a post on X dated October 1, he wrote: “At the right valuation, @RCBTweets is a great team…”
Valuation and Wealth Numbers Suggest Big Moves Ahead
Forbes lists Poonawalla’s net worth at over $20 billion, while Pai and Kamath are reported at $2.8 billion and $2.5 billion, respectively. RCB’s valuation, previously pegged at over $1 billion in 2022, is expected to be significantly higher following their first IPL title in 18 years. A recent report by investment firm Houlihan Lokey estimates the IPL’s overall business value at $18.5 billion and brand value at $3.9 billion in 2025. Notably, RCB leads the pack with a brand value of $269 million, the highest among all ten franchises.
While there is speculation of a potential consortium involving Kamath, Pai, and possibly Poonawalla, none of the parties have publicly commented on the rumors so far. The coming weeks are expected to bring clarity on who will take over the billion-dollar franchise.