Denis O’Brien, founder of telecommunications giant Digicel, has acquired full ownership of Cricket Sporting Investments Limited (CSIL), the parent company of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), following a sales process managed by Oakwell Sports Advisory.
O’Brien, a founding shareholder of CPL since its inception in 2013, became the sole owner after a strategic divestment by Digicel Group Holdings Limited. The process included engagement with industry stakeholders and investors.
“I have a deep love for the Caribbean and its people,” O’Brien said. “It is exciting to see the CPL’s role in uniting communities and making a positive impact. I am committed to continuing its cultural and economic contributions while developing future cricketing stars.”
Renowned for his business ventures and philanthropy, O’Brien founded Digicel in 2001 and has supported regional development through initiatives such as the Digicel Foundation, which has invested over $147 million in community projects.
CPL chairman Richard Bevan welcomed O’Brien’s leadership, emphasising the importance of continuity for the league’s management team and collaboration with cricket stakeholders.
“Denis’s full ownership ensures CPL remains a platform for nurturing talent and promoting Caribbean cricket globally,” Bevan said.
CPL CEO Pete Russell credited O’Brien’s vision as instrumental to the league’s success. “Denis has been integral to CPL’s journey. His decision to take ownership underscores his faith in the region’s cricketing future,” Russell said.
O’Brien’s broader contributions to the Caribbean include championing reparatory justice through the Repair Campaign and advocating for social and economic progress. His stewardship is expected to elevate CPL’s influence while reinforcing its role as a premier sporting and cultural event.