NFL, NBA stars invest in Royals

NEW DELHI: Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul and NFL duo Larry Fitzgerald and Kelvin Beachum have invested in the Rajasthan Royals, the IPL franchise said on Sunday. The three Americans will be minority investors in the 2008 IPL champions, the franchise said in a statement without sharing details of their investment. “We are extremely pleased to have Chris, Larry and Kelvin join us as investors who have seen the vision of the Royals as a truly global brand,” RR’S lead owner Manoj Badale said. The United States will co-host the 2024 T20 World Cup.

“I am excited to have become one of the first US athletes to see scope for growth in the IPL,” said NBA star Paul, 36. “With a variety of components, including stadium experience and fan engagement still left to fulfil their course, I see myself contributing world-class experience through this strategic investment.” The two-time Olympic gold medallist also has a stake in minor league baseball team, Winston-salem Dash. RR owners acquired a majority stake in the Caribbean Premier League team Barbados Tridents last year. “I am keenly aware of the popularity of cricket internationally and am thrilled to join the RR franchise as an investor,” Arizona Cardinals’ offensive tackle Beachum said.