Jude Bellingham explains reason behind surprise Birmingham Phoenix investment

Real Madrid and England star Jude Bellingham has acquired a minority stake in cricket franchise Birmingham Phoenix, stating “I feel like I owe the city something". The investment sees the midfielder take a 1. 2 per cent holding in the Edgbaston-based Hundred team, confirming his identity as the previously unnamed investor mentioned in parent club Warwickshire’s annual accounts.

The deal, valued at more than £800,000, comprises 0. 6 per cent from Warwickshire and an additional 0. 6 per cent from American investment partners Knighthead Capital.

This follows Knighthead Capital’s acquisition of a 49 per cent stake last year, when the Phoenix franchise was valued at approximately £82 million during a sales process initiated by the England and Wales Cricket Board. Bellingham, who grew up in Stourbridge, began his illustrious career at Birmingham City , where his number 22 shirt was retired after his move to Borussia Dortmund at just 17. A keen cricket enthusiast, the 22-year-old previously played for Hagley in Worcestershire during his junior years.

Jude Bellingham has bought a minority stake in Birmingham Phoenix (PA Wire) Explaining his decision, Bellingham said: "I love Birmingham. I’m very grateful for what the whole city of Birmingham has done for me. I love cricket as well so when I got the opportunity to get involved I didn’t really think twice about it, so I’m so happy to be on board.