Surrey in likely tie-up with IPL franchise: report

Following in the footsteps of Hampshire, Surrey could become the second English county to tie up with an Indian Premier League franchise as Delhi Daredevils and Kolkata Knight Riders are reportedly keen to forge an alliance with them.

According to a report in The Times, Surrey Chief Executive Paul Sheldon is in India for talks with IPL franchises and has got feelers from the Daredevils and KKR for a tie-up.

"Any deal is more likely to be a straightforward pairing of two clubs rather than wider global branding," the report said.

"I am in India to investigate with a range of people any possible link with a country that is full of opportunity. It is vital that Surrey are at the forefront of such discussions," Sheldon was quoted as saying by the newspaper.

"Delhi Daredevils and Kolkata Knight Riders are thought to be keen on partnerships in England," the report said.

Hampshire became the first county club to forge an alliance with an IPL franchise when it tied up with Rajasthan Royals last week.

But not all counties are keen on such tie-ups with Middlesex CEO Vinny Codrington saying that they were not even considering it.