The 2026 season of The Hundred has officially begun, introducing the biggest transformation in the tournament’s history since its launch in 2021. While the unique 100-ball format remains unchanged, almost every other aspect of the competition has been refreshed. New franchise owners, rebranded teams, increased player salaries, an auction-based recruitment system, and several commercial changes have given the tournament a completely new identity. These developments are designed to make The Hundred more competitive, financially stronger, and more attractive to players and fans around the world.
One of the most noticeable changes this season is the introduction of new team names. Following investment from global franchise owners, Oval Invincibles have been renamed MI London, Manchester Originals are now Manchester Super Giants, and Northern Superchargers have become SunRisers Leeds. These rebranded teams now share identities with some of the world’s biggest T20 franchises, particularly those from the Indian Premier League (IPL). The remaining franchises have retained their original names but have also updated their branding and kits.
The tournament has also introduced a player auction for the first time, replacing the previous draft system. Under the new format, franchises bid for players during an open auction, giving teams greater flexibility to build competitive squads. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) believes this system will attract more international stars while creating a fairer and more dynamic player market across both the men’s and women’s competitions.
Another major development is the significant increase in player salaries. The men’s salary cap has increased substantially, while the women’s competition has received an even bigger boost, with the overall salary pool doubling compared to previous seasons. The ECB says these changes are intended to make The Hundred one of the most attractive franchise competitions outside the IPL, encouraging top international players to participate.
The arrival of overseas investors has also changed the commercial landscape of English cricket. Earlier investment deals brought more than £500 million into the domestic game, with funds being distributed to county cricket and grassroots development. The ECB believes this financial backing will strengthen English cricket over the long term while ensuring The Hundred continues to grow as a global tournament.
Several teams have also unveiled new playing kits and branding that reflect their ownership groups. For example, MI London now wears colours similar to the Mumbai Indians, while SunRisers Leeds has adopted the orange colours associated with Sunrisers Hyderabad. Manchester Super Giants have also introduced a fresh identity inspired by the Lucknow Super Giants franchise. These visual changes are expected to strengthen the global recognition of the teams.
The coaching landscape has changed dramatically as well. Most franchises have appointed new coaching staffs following the ownership transition, bringing fresh tactical ideas and international experience into the competition. Only a small number of head coaches from last season have remained in their positions, highlighting the scale of the tournament’s transformation.
The 2026 edition has also introduced a combined franchise trophy, rewarding the best overall performance across both the men’s and women’s competitions. Points earned by both teams contribute to a franchise’s overall standing, encouraging equal focus on men’s and women’s cricket throughout the tournament. Individual men’s and women’s titles will continue to be awarded as before.
Cricket experts believe these sweeping reforms mark the beginning of a new era for The Hundred. Supporters have welcomed higher player salaries and stronger investment, while others are closely watching how the new branding and auction system will influence the tournament’s long-term identity. Despite differing opinions, there is widespread agreement that the 2026 season represents the biggest evolution in the competition’s short history.
As the tournament gets underway, fans can expect high-quality cricket featuring many of the world’s leading players alongside England’s biggest stars. With fresh identities, increased investment, and a renewed vision for the future, The Hundred 2026 promises to be one of the most exciting editions yet and another important chapter in the continued growth of franchise cricket.
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