Private Ownership, Big Changes Loom for the Hundred
New owners, bigger budgets, and altered player lineups are reshaping the landscape of cricket's short-format spectacle. Since the last ball of the 2025 competition, everything from team names to player salaries has seen significant upheaval.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is embarking on a new era with substantial investments in all eight teams, bringing in more than £500 million into the domestic game. This includes changes in ownership for each of the original teams, with names now reflecting similar Indian Premier League affiliations.
MI London, former Oval Invincibles; Northern Superchargers becoming SunRisers Leeds; and Manchester Originals revamping as Manchester Super Giants.According to reporting by The Guardian - Sport.
New Players, New Logos, Fresh Faces
The Hundred is no stranger to change, but the 2026 edition promises more alterations. Teams are preparing for an influx of higher-paid players with salary boosts averaging 100% and 45% for men and women respectively. Despite financial gains, the lineups remain fluid as teams bid farewell to familiar faces.
London Spirit saw over 80% of their squad changes year-on-year, marking an unprecedented shift in player dynamics. With a maximum of four players per team selected through traditional channels, auction selection has introduced fresh talent across all squads.Shake-up at the Coaching Bench
The coaching staff is experiencing its largest overhaul to date with only two head coaches continuing from 2025's lineup. These moves are part of a wider realignment expected to affect the broader cricketing ecosystem, impacting how teams prepare for matches.
And Andy Flower, former Trent Rockets coach, has moved to London Spirit, adding another layer of tactical uncertainty.Sponsorships and Venues: A New Era of Cricket Economics
The Hundred’s commercial landscape is evolving with a focus on mature brands over the more playful teams that have shaped its early stages. Sponsorship deals are moving away from traditional sports gear to broader business ventures, marking a shift toward serious cricket investment.
Vitality and Barclays joining the front-of-shirt sponsors for 2026 as the Hundred embraces corporate culture over fan-friendly promotions.Frequently Asked Questions
Why are team names changing?
The name changes mirror those in the Indian Premier League, reflecting new ownership and branding strategies.
Will players be more expensive this year?
Yes, with 45% increase for men and a 100%-up spike for women in salaries. The best-paid player, Harry Brook, now earns £200,000 after a rise from £125,000.
What about the coaches?
Coaching staff is being reshuffled extensively with only two coaches remaining from 2025. These changes reflect larger transformations expected across the ECB's operations.