Real Madrid and England football star Jude Bellingham has strengthened his connection with his hometown of Birmingham through his involvement with The Hundred franchise Birmingham Phoenix. The Birmingham-born
midfielder previously acquired a 1.2% minority stake in the team, marking his entry into cricket ownership and giving him another opportunity to maintain close ties with the city where his football journey began.
His investment also places the England international among the growing number of global sporting personalities becoming involved with cricket franchises following structural changes to The Hundred. Fresh off a standout World Cup campaign, Bellingham made his first public appearance at the tournament at Edgbaston on Saturday. Accompanied by his parents, Mark and Denise, the England midfielder attracted considerable attention from supporters and cameras as he became involved in the pre-match proceedings.
Bellingham stepped onto the outfield for the official coin toss alongside Birmingham Phoenix captain Donovan Ferreira and Welsh Fire skipper Phil Salt. He also shared a warm interaction with former India cricketer and commentator Ravi Shastri, who introduced and welcomed Birmingham's own "Galáctico" to the iconic venue.
One of the biggest moments from Bellingham's appearance came when he shook hands with Salt during the toss. The image of the Real Madrid superstar alongside the England cricketer quickly circulated across social media, creating a memorable crossover between two of the country's most popular sports. The two English sporting figures crossed paths during the Birmingham Phoenix and Welsh Fire double-header at Edgbaston on August 1, with Bellingham attending in his capacity as a minority investor in the Phoenix franchise.
Jude Bellingham, Phil Salt's viral handshake steals spotlight at The Hundred
Before the men's fixture got underway, Bellingham was seen interacting with several cricketers on the field. After being introduced by Shastri, he exchanged greetings with Salt and Ferreira before also spending time chatting with England and Warwickshire youngster Jacob Bethell. Photos and videos of the interactions soon gained attention online, with football and cricket supporters reacting to the unusual meeting of stars from the two sports.
Bellingham's appearance carried additional significance because of his deep Birmingham roots. Having begun his professional football career with Birmingham City before moving to Borussia Dortmund and subsequently Real Madrid, the midfielder remains closely associated with his hometown. His investment in Birmingham Phoenix has now provided another sporting connection to the city, while his Edgbaston appearance offered supporters their first glimpse of the football superstar embracing his new role within The Hundred.
