The Hundred, a cricket tournament founded in 2021, is considering expanding its horizons. Currently featuring eight teams, the tournament has caught the attention of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and stakeholders alike. Vikram Banerjee, ECB's director of business operations, views the expansion as a "no brainer" if the competition continues to grow at its current pace. However, any expansion would need to be justified, especially given the tournament's tightly packed schedule during the school summer holidays.
RPSG Group, owners of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team Lucknow Super Giants, have shown significant interest in The Hundred by agreeing to pay over £80 million for a 70% stake in the Manchester Originals franchise. This partnership could play a pivotal role in spearheading future expansions. The current eight teams have a combined valuation of £975 million, highlighting the tournament's growing financial appeal.
The prospect of expansion could see The Hundred grow to ten teams, resulting in an additional 13 group games beyond the current schedule. Each team currently plays eight group matches, facing their nearest rivals twice and six other opponents once. Despite potential growth, the ECB remains firm that The Hundred will not extend beyond its current four-week window in the calendar.
Potential locations for new teams have been identified, with Durham's Chester-le-Street and a ground in the southwest, possibly Somerset or Gloucestershire, being considered. The earliest any additional teams could be incorporated would be 2029, following the end of the ECB's broadcast agreement with Sky.
The tournament is unique in its format, featuring both men's and women's competitions with double-header matches at single venues each day. This format has garnered positive attention and increased viewership, fueling discussions of possible expansion.
"It is understandable that the ECB is open to that because it has stakeholders who want to join the party." – James Sheridan
However, there are considerations to weigh before proceeding with expansion. James Sheridan notes that while stakeholders are eager, "Whether it makes sense for team owners and the existing eight teams, we'll have to see." He emphasizes that "Expansion only makes sense if this competition grows very strongly over that period of time, a quick period."
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