The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed that the popular cricket format, The Hundred, will retain its structure as a 100-ball tournament for the upcoming 2026 season. This announcement comes after speculation regarding potential changes, including a shift to a traditional 20-over format. ECB Chair Richard Thompson firmly stated that no alterations are planned for the immediate future, providing clarity ahead of significant investments and ownership changes among franchises.
During an interview with Sky Sports Cricket, Thompson addressed the discussions surrounding the tournament’s format. “I can categorically tell you it’s 100 balls next year,” he emphasized, reassuring fans and stakeholders alike. He also noted that changes to the format would not occur during the current television rights cycle, suggesting stability for the tournament in the near term.
The ECB’s commitment to The Hundred reflects the organization’s efforts to enhance the sport’s appeal. With Sky acquiring the broadcasting rights, the partnership aims to maintain the tournament’s unique identity. As Thompson mentioned, “Sky are not going to want to change that, but it’s up to the owners and ECB to decide what that might be in the future.”
The Hundred, introduced in 2021, has generated significant interest and investment, attracting cricket fans with its fast-paced format. The decision to keep the tournament’s original structure ensures continuity as teams prepare for the next season. With franchises undergoing changes in ownership and structure, the ECB’s announcement provides a sense of direction amid evolving dynamics in professional cricket.
As anticipation builds for the 2026 edition, stakeholders will be closely watching how The Hundred evolves while maintaining its core format. The ECB’s emphasis on the 100-ball structure promises to keep fans engaged in a sport that continues to adapt to modern preferences.
