The latest auction for The Hundred delivered a historic moment for cricket in the United Kingdom, as franchises spent millions of pounds to secure top talent ahead of the tournament’s sixth season. Over the course of two days, 169 players were signed by the eight competing franchises, with total contracts reaching an impressive £11.9 million.
The event marked the first large-scale sports auction ever conducted in the UK, highlighting the rapid growth and commercial success of The Hundred since its launch. Alongside major men’s signings, the women’s auction also broke new ground, with several players earning record contracts that placed them among the highest-paid female athletes in British sport.
With international stars, emerging talents, and experienced campaigners securing new deals, the auction has significantly reshaped team rosters ahead of what promises to be another exciting summer of cricket.
Major Signings in The Hundred Women’s Auction
The women’s auction produced several eye-catching deals as teams competed for both established internationals and rising stars.
England all-rounder Dani Gibson was one of the biggest winners, signing with SunRisers Leeds for £190,000. The move reflects her growing importance in England’s white-ball setup and her ability to contribute with both bat and ball.
Fast bowler Issy Wong also secured a major contract after joining Southern Brave for £130,000. Wong’s raw pace and attacking bowling style make her one of the most exciting young seamers in women’s cricket.
Another notable addition to Southern Brave is Tilly Corteen-Coleman, an 18-year-old spinner who was signed for £105,000, highlighting the growing demand for young talent in the competition.
International stars also attracted major bids. New Zealand captain Sophie Devine joined Welsh Fire for £210,000, while Australian batter Beth Mooney, currently the world’s No.1 ranked batter, signed with Trent Rockets for the same amount.
Meanwhile, England batter Paige Scholfield joined Manchester Super Giants in a deal worth £115,000.
Top Women’s Auction Signings
| Player | Team | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Dani Gibson | SunRisers Leeds | £190,000 |
| Issy Wong | Southern Brave | £130,000 |
| Tilly Corteen-Coleman | Southern Brave | £105,000 |
| Sophie Devine | Welsh Fire | £210,000 |
| Beth Mooney | Trent Rockets | £210,000 |
| Paige Scholfield | Manchester Super Giants | £115,000 |
These deals underline how The Hundred has helped elevate women’s cricket financially and professionally since its introduction.
Key Highlights From the Men’s Auction
The men’s auction featured several high-value deals involving England internationals and rising domestic stars.
Sussex all-rounder James Coles became the most expensive signing when London Spirit secured him for £390,000. Coles has impressed in county cricket with his all-round performances and is expected to play a key role for his new franchise.
England batter Jordan Cox was another big acquisition, joining Welsh Fire in a deal worth £300,000.
Veteran leg-spinner Adil Rashid was picked up by Southern Brave for £250,000, giving the side a world-class spin option.
Pakistan’s mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed was signed by SunRisers Leeds for £190,000, adding international experience to their bowling attack.
One of the most interesting storylines from the auction involved Tom Curran, who joined MI London for £260,000, reuniting him with his brother Sam Curran.
Meanwhile, experienced wicketkeeper-batter Sam Billings signed with Trent Rockets for £180,000, while Scott Currie joined Birmingham Phoenix for £210,000.
Top Men’s Auction Signings
| Player | Team | Price |
|---|---|---|
| James Coles | London Spirit | £390,000 |
| Jordan Cox | Welsh Fire | £300,000 |
| Tom Curran | MI London | £260,000 |
| Adil Rashid | Southern Brave | £250,000 |
| Joe Root | Welsh Fire | £240,000 |
| Scott Currie | Birmingham Phoenix | £210,000 |
| Abrar Ahmed | SunRisers Leeds | £190,000 |
| Sam Billings | Trent Rockets | £180,000 |
Historic First Picks in the Auction
The auction also produced several historic moments.
Young cricketer Davina Perrin made history by becoming the first player sold in the women’s auction, joining Birmingham Phoenix for £50,000.
In the men’s auction, England star Joe Root was the first player to go under the hammer, eventually signing with Welsh Fire for £240,000.
Also Read: The Hundred 2026 Auction Sparks Debate as World No.1 Bowler Sadia Iqbal Goes Unsold
Dani Gibson Highlights Growth of Women’s Cricket
After her big move, Dani Gibson shared her excitement about joining SunRisers Leeds and playing at Headingley Stadium.
She admitted that watching the auction was nerve-racking but said she was thrilled to join the defending champions. Gibson also spoke about how much women’s cricket has progressed since The Hundred launched in 2020.
According to her, the salaries and opportunities now available to female cricketers are dramatically different from the early years of the competition. She believes young girls watching the tournament today can realistically see cricket as a professional career path.
James Coles Excited to Join London Spirit
New London Spirit recruit James Coles also expressed his excitement about playing home matches at Lord’s Cricket Ground, widely regarded as one of the most iconic cricket venues in the world.
Coles said he is looking forward to working under head coach Andy Flower and playing alongside some of the best players in the competition.
He described The Hundred as a world-class tournament that continues to attract top talent from across the globe.
The Hundred 2026 Season Set for Exciting Start
The sixth edition of The Hundred is scheduled to begin on 21 July, with MI London hosting SunRisers Leeds in the opening match.
Since its introduction, the tournament has gained popularity for its fast-paced 100-ball format, vibrant stadium atmosphere, and equal focus on both men’s and women’s competitions.
With record spending in the auction, star-studded line-ups, and emerging young players ready to shine, the upcoming season of The Hundred is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and entertaining editions yet.
Cricket fans can expect thrilling matches, new rivalries, and unforgettable moments when the tournament returns this summer.
