New Delhi, April 21 -- Jude Bellingham buys stake in Birmingham Phoenix: Real Madrid star invests in The Hundred cricket franchise

Jude Bellingham, England and Real Madrid midfielder, has purchased a minority stake in the Birmingham Phoenix, one of the eight teams in England's popular The Hundred cricket competition. The move strengthens his ties with his hometown and highlights growing crossover interest between football and cricket.

Jude Bellingham, the 22-year-old superstar, who started his professional career at Birmingham City and attended school in Edgbaston, has acquired a 1.2% stake in the Edgbaston-based franchise. The deal, valued at close to £1 million, is expected to be officially confirmed on Wednesday.

Bellingham has...