What Is The Hundred?
The Hundred is a thrilling 100-ball cricket extravaganza that promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats. This action-packed tournament features world-class players and some of the biggest names in cricket from around the globe.
Teams and Format
The 100 ball competition showcases eight city-based teams, each with a men’s and women’s squad competing alongside each other over five weeks every English summer.
The teams include Birmingham Phoenix (Edgbaston), London Spirit (Lord’s), Manchester Originals (Emirates Old Trafford), Northern Superchargers (Headingley), Oval Invincibles (The Kia Oval), Southern Brave (Utilita Bowl), Trent Rockets (Trent Bridge) and Welsh Fire (Sophia Gardens). Each squad consists of 15 players, with a maximum of four overseas stars and no more than two centrally contracted England players in the Men’s Competition.
Player Selection Process
The selection of players is an exciting aspect of The Hundred. A Draft system allocates players to each men’s team, ensuring a fair and thrilling selection process. The women’s teams have a bespoke player selection process tailored to their competition’s unique needs, adding another layer of excitement for fans.
Unique 100-Ball Format
The Hundred introduces a format with 100 balls per innings, where the team scoring the most runs wins. Key features of the format include fielding side changes after every 10 balls, flexible bowling with bowlers delivering either five or 10 consecutive balls as decided by the captain and a maximum of 20 balls per match for each bowler. Each bowling side gets a 90-second strategic timeout, allowing the coach to discuss tactics mid-match. A 25-ball powerplay for each team, with only two fielders allowed outside the initial 30-yard circle, makes the game even more dynamic. Each match lasts approximately two and a half hours, making for a fast-paced and exciting viewing experience.
Player Salaries
The Hundred sets competitive salary bands to attract top talent. For 2024, the women’s salary bands range from £50,000 for the top two players to £8,000 for three players, ensuring a broad range of compensation. The men’s salary bands for 2024 remain unchanged from 2023, with top players earning £125,000, including one England Centrally Contracted Player, down to £30,000 for three players.
Where To Watch The Hundred In India?
Enthusiasts can watch The Hundred 2024 on the Sony Sports Network television across different languages. Fans can also live stream The Hundred 2024 on the Sony LIV app and on FanCode.
The Hundred offers an unmissable blend of fast-paced action and top-tier cricket, making it a must-watch event every summer. With its unique format and star-studded teams, it is set to revolutionize the way fans experience cricket.
Also read about IPL franchise owners showing interests in investing in The Hundred here.
The Sportz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye
