Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, known for their ownership of Wrexham FC, are reportedly eyeing an investment in Welsh Fire, a cricket franchise that competes in The Hundred. The duo, who have made a significant impact on Welsh sports with Wrexham’s back-to-back promotions, are now looking to expand their sporting portfolio into cricket.
Welsh Fire, which plays at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff, is partially owned by Glamorgan County Cricket Club, which holds a 51% stake in the franchise. Dan Cherry, Chief Executive of Glamorgan, confirmed to ESPNcricinfo that discussions have begun with Reynolds and McElhenney about a potential deal.
“It’s a feasible option. Contact’s been made, but nothing substantial has come back yet,” Cherry stated. “We’ll evaluate all bids and offers, and while there’s obvious interest in what they’ve done at Wrexham, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right fit for us.”
The interest from Reynolds and McElhenney comes as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) seeks to raise £500 million by selling 49% stakes in the eight teams that make up The Hundred. The ECB, working alongside Deloitte and legal firm Latham & Watkins, has been in talks with owners from leagues such as the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the NFL in a bid to attract investors.
Reynolds and McElhenney have already expanded their sports investments beyond football, with stakes in Mexican club Necaxa and the Alpine Formula 1 team. If the deal with Welsh Fire materialises, it would further broaden their presence in international sports.
For now, discussions remain in the early stages, but any potential involvement from the Hollywood duo would undoubtedly generate excitement in Welsh cricket, following their remarkable success with Wrexham FC.