English cricket's divisive The Hundred tournament could be in line for a radical shake-up, with discussions underway to potentially convert it into a Twenty20 (T20) competition as early as the 2026 season.
According to sources close to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), the governing body is seriously considering abandoning The Hundred's unique 100-ball format in favour of the globally popular T20 structure. This move would bring the tournament in line with other major domestic leagues like the Indian Premier League and Australia's Big Bash.
Why the Potential Change?
The Hundred, launched in 2021, was designed to attract new audiences to cricket with its simplified rules and shorter format. However, it has faced criticism from traditional fans and struggled to establish itself internationally.
Key factors driving the potential transformation include:
- Greater commercial appeal of T20 cricket globally
- Easier integration with international player schedules
- Simplified broadcasting arrangements
- Alignment with other major tournaments
What This Means for English Cricket
If approved, the change would represent a significant U-turn for the ECB. The governing body invested heavily in establishing The Hundred as a distinct product, complete with new teams and branding.
However, many within the sport believe adopting the T20 format could:
- Boost participation and viewing figures
- Attract higher-profile international stars
- Increase revenue from overseas broadcast deals
A final decision is expected later this year, with 2026 emerging as the earliest possible implementation date for the new format.
