London Spirit Retain Name Ahead of Rebrand as Mo Bobat Appointed Director of Cricket
London Spirit will retain their name heading into the 2026 season, following the sale of a 49% stake in the franchise to Silicon Valley investment group "Tech Titans." The Lord's-based Hundred team is, however, expected to unveil new branding next year, potentially incorporating the iconic MCC "egg-and-bacon" colours.
In a major leadership move, former England performance director Mo Bobat has been appointed as the team's new Director of Cricket. Bobat, who will continue in his current role with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL, will officially begin his duties with Spirit in October.
The announcement marks the first significant appointment by any of The Hundred franchises since the ECB signed off on six of the eight equity sales last month.
Bobat expressed his enthusiasm for the challenge ahead:
“It’s an honour to join London Spirit at such an exciting time. The opportunity to shape the cricketing future of this franchise, working with MCC and our new partners, the Tech Titans, is incredibly exciting. I’m looking forward to building something special – on and off the field.”
London Spirit chairman Julian Metherell praised the appointment and reaffirmed the club’s commitment to its evolving identity:
“Today marks a significant moment for London Spirit. Mo Bobat brings unmatched expertise and vision to the role of Director of Cricket, and we’re thrilled to welcome him.
Retaining the London Spirit name reflects our belief in the identity that’s been built – one that resonates with the capital, our fans, and our values. We now look ahead to a new era, with fresh energy and clear purpose.”
While the Spirit name stays, changes are expected as the franchise enters a new phase with private investment and greater independence. MCC, the majority stakeholder, has been in talks with the Tech Titans consortium for months and sees the rebranding as an opportunity to align the team more closely with Lord’s traditions and the vibrancy of London’s cricketing scene.
On the field, London Spirit’s men’s team, coached by Justin Langer, have had a mixed start to the 2025 season. They were bowled out for just 80 in their opening match in front of the new owners, but bounced back with a convincing win over Welsh Fire at the weekend.
The developments signal a new chapter for London Spirit, as the franchise seeks to combine cricketing excellence with commercial growth under new leadership and ownership.