Why would I sell my stake: SRK

When Shah Rukh Khan’s Kolkata Knight Riders shed their underachievers tag to lift the IPL 5 trophy, they also pocketed a whopping Rs 10 crore in prize money. Interestingly, it’s believed that had KKR — which spent around Rs 100 crore on hiring players for this season — not won, it would have been “difficult to register profits”.

When Shah Rukh Khan’s Kolkata Knight Riders shed their underachievers tag to lift the IPL 5 trophy, they also pocketed a whopping Rs 10 crore in prize money. Interestingly, it’s believed that had KKR — which spent around Rs 100 crore on hiring players for this season — not won, it would have been “difficult to register profits”.

SRK, on his part, seems quite confident about the franchise’s finances. That’s probably why the superstar is “surprised” when he is questioned now and then about plans to sell his stake in the cricket franchise.

“Why would I sell it (his stake)? As far as I know, there are no such plans. But I am not aware if someone else is doing it without keeping me in the loop,” quips SRK. Technically, Shah Rukh has about 55 per cent stake in the franchise, while former co-star Juhi Chawla and the Sea Island Ltd (run by her husband Jay Mehta) hold the remaining shares.

SRK explains, “Honestly, I am not looking for stake owners at all. Instead, I want strong strategic partners who can help in terms of expertise (in sports management) and also bring it to other sports like football or hockey.”

SRK is also believed to have bought a 50 per cent stake in Goa-based football club (and current I-League champions) Dempo. While the actor has apparently given the go-ahead, his team members are doing some last-minute paperwork as he shoots one of the last schedules of Yash Chopra’s next in London. SRK’s investment in the football club will be through his banner, Red Chillies.