The Hundred 2026: New Auction Format Reshapes Squads and Boosts Player Salaries

The Hundred has completed its first-ever player auction, bringing the rosters for all eight franchises into clear focus.

While the first five iterations of the tournament relied on a tiered draft system for player allocation, a surge in private investment has prompted a shift in strategy. Players who were not previously retained or signed have now had their teams and contracts determined via an auction process.

Each squad will consist of 16 to 18 players. To maintain competitive balance, the league has implemented both a salary cap and a salary collar, the latter ensuring a minimum spending threshold for every team.

Financial investment in the competition has grown significantly; the men’s salary pot for 2026 has increased by 45% to £2.05 million per team, while the fund for the women’s competition has doubled to £880,000.

This new financial structure has created some of the highest-earning female athletes in the UK. All-rounder Danielle Gibson, fast bowler Issy Wong, and 18-year-old spinner Tilly Corteen-Coleman each secured deals exceeding £100,000.

Among the men, 21-year-old James Coles emerged as a top earner with a £390,000 contract, followed by batter Jordan Cox at £300,000. Established stars Joe Root and Adil Rashid also commanded significant sums in the bidding.

Following the conclusion of the T20 Blast, franchises will have the opportunity to finalize their rosters with two additional wildcard selections.

Below is the current state of The Hundred squads ahead of the 2026 season.

Source link