The Hundred 2026 Fixtures have officially dropped, revealing the roadmap for the most transformative summer in the competition’s history.
This year’s schedule arrives at a defining moment. The Hundred has firmly established itself in the cricket calendar, and now, supercharged by a landmark evolution in ownership and investment, it is ready to level up. The 2026 fixture list proves it: early heavyweight matchups, major venues firing from the outset, and a structure designed to keep the intensity red-hot through to Finals Day.
The season begins on Tuesday, 21 July with a double-header at the Kia Oval. From opening night onwards, the schedule is designed to keep momentum building across venues, broadcasts, and digital platforms throughout the summer.
Opening Night at the Kia Oval
The tournament kicks off in London with a double-header that sets the standard immediately. MI London (formerly the Oval Invincibles) play host to Sunrisers Leeds (previously the Northern Superchargers).
In the men’s competition, MI London begin their title defence under a dynamic new global identity. Having already established themselves as the most successful side in the tournament’s history, they chase a fourth consecutive title in front of their home crowd. The women’s fixture follows, with Sunrisers Leeds looking to leverage their 2025 championship win and carry that dominance into the new era.
With a full house expected in South London, opening night showcases exactly what The Hundred does best: elite competitive cricket, instantly recognisable teams, and a format that delivers engagement from ball one.
New Identities, Same Intensity
The 2026 season debuts three updated team identities following major new ownership structures. These changes bring fresh global branding while maintaining the deep connection to the venues fans love.
- MI London (formerly Oval Invincibles)
- Sunrisers Leeds (formerly Northern Superchargers)
- Manchester Super Giants (formerly Manchester Originals)
The First-Ever Auction & Squad Changes
This evolution goes beyond just names. The league has confirmed its inaugural IPL-style Player Auction will take place in London on 11-12 March 2026.
This two-day event replaces the old draft system, giving franchises a powerful new way to build their squads and adding a fresh layer of strategy before the season even starts. Crucially, the rules have evolved to allow squads to include four overseas players (up from three). This change ensures that fans will see even more of the world’s best international talent taking the field alongside homegrown stars.
The Hundred 2026 Key Dates for Your Calendar
Following the opening night in London, the tournament quickly rolls out across the country’s premier cricket grounds.
- Wednesday, 22 July: Southern Brave host Welsh Fire at the Utilita Bowl.
- Thursday, 23 July: Lord’s hosts London Spirit against Manchester Super Giants.
- Friday, 24 July: Birmingham Phoenix face Trent Rockets at Edgbaston.
With a schedule packed with double-headers, staying organised is the key to enjoying the summer. The smartest play for fans is to sync the full fixture list directly to your calendar using ECAL. This ensures every match, from the opener to the final, is automatically updated in your schedule so you never miss a delivery.
The league stage builds towards a high-stakes finish, with the Eliminators confirmed for Friday, 14 August. In a huge win for fans, the ECB has introduced Reserve Days for both the Eliminator (Saturday, 15 August) and the Final (Monday, 17 August), ensuring the trophy is decided on the pitch, rain or shine.
The season culminates with The Hundred Finals Day at Lord’s on Sunday, 16 August, where the men’s and women’s champions will be crowned at the Home of Cricket.
The Format You Love
While the names and stakes have evolved, the 100-ball format remains the heartbeat of the competition. Matches are fast, frenetic, and easy to follow, with every ball contributing directly to the drama.
This simplicity has been the secret to The Hundred’s appeal, engaging families and new audiences alongside traditional cricket fans. Despite the off-field changes, the on-field product remains pure: 100 balls per side, designed for maximum entertainment.
Looking Ahead to Summer 2026
With the fixtures confirmed, the countdown to July is officially on. The Hundred 2026 promises a summer of high-quality cricket across England and Wales, with a schedule designed to deliver unmissable action from the opening night to the final trophy lift.
The Hundred 2026 Frequently Asked Questions
When does The Hundred 2026 start?
The tournament begins on Tuesday, 21 July 2026, with a double-header at the Kia Oval featuring MI London vs Sunrisers Leeds.
How can I make sure I don’t miss a match?
You can sync the official schedule straight to your phone or digital calendar via ECAL. It is the easiest way to keep track of your team’s fixtures and any late changes
What are the new team names in The Hundred 2026?
Three teams have rebranded following new investment. Oval Invincibles are now MI London, Northern Superchargers have become Sunrisers Leeds, and Manchester Originals are now Manchester Super Giants.
How can fans buy tickets for The Hundred 2026?
Tickets will be available via The Hundred’s official website. We recommend signing up for early access to secure seats for the biggest fixtures, including the opening double-header.
Where will The Hundred Finals Day be held in 2026?
Finals Day will take place at Lord’s on Sunday, 16 August 2026, hosting both the men’s and women’s finals.
