Event Overview
Dates: July 23 - August 18
Coverage: 15 matches will be broadcast live on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer, with detailed ball-by-ball commentary available across BBC Sounds, BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, and the BBC Sport website and app.
The fourth edition of The Hundred kicks off, showcasing not only some of the world's finest cricket talents, but also providing a platform for emerging home-grown players. This tournament is a prime opportunity for young cricketers to showcase their skills and vie for future international recognition.
Promising Young Cricketers to Watch
Tilly Corteen-Coleman
- Age: 16
- Team: Southern Brave
- Role: Left-arm spinner
At just 16, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, a promising left-arm spinner, was selected by Southern Brave in the Hundred draft this April. She is on track to become the youngest player in the history of The Hundred if she participates in either of their opening matches, surpassing the record previously held by Alice Capsey.
Former England captain Charlotte Edwards noted similarities between Corteen-Coleman and Sophie Ecclestone, the top-ranked bowler globally, highlighting the young spinner’s impressive debut season. Corteen-Coleman showcased her talent by taking four consecutive wickets against Northern Diamonds in the Charlotte Edwards Cup, concluding with remarkable figures of 5-19. Her potential was further recognised when she debuted for the England Under-19s during their Sri Lanka tour earlier this year.
Lydia Greenway, another former England international, praised her athleticism, fielding skills, and positive attitude, all of which mirror the qualities seen in established players.
Josh Hull
- Age: 19
- Team: Manchester Originals
- Role: Left-arm fast bowler
Standing at an imposing 6ft 7in, Josh Hull has made a notable impact as a left-arm fast bowler for Manchester Originals. His first-class debut for Leicestershire saw him taking a wicket with just his fourth ball. Hull's defensive prowess was on display during the One-Day Cup final in 2023, where he successfully defended eight runs in the final over, securing a victory for his team.
England’s managing director, Rob Key, has identified Hull as a promising talent for the future, particularly with an eye on developing a cadre of fast bowlers for the next Ashes series. Key emphasised the importance of Hull's ability to maintain speed and pressure, traits that are crucial for succeeding at the highest levels.
Carlos Brathwaite, a former West Indies T20 captain, commended Hull's effortless run-up and natural pace, suggesting that his participation in high-level cricket, such as The Hundred, will be instrumental in his development.
Seren Smale
- Age: 19
- Team: Birmingham Phoenix
- Role: Top-order batter and wicketkeeper
Seren Smale, born in Wrexham and previously representing Wales at the under-15 level, has been a standout performer for England. She was a key player in England's squad at the inaugural Under-19s T20 World Cup in 2023, amassing 121 runs across six matches with a notable performance against Pakistan.
Following her impressive stint, she earned a professional contract with Lancashire Thunder and later joined Southern Brave for The Hundred. Although she did not play last season, her consistent performances in domestic cricket, including a strong showing in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, have marked her as a rising star.
Katherine Sciver-Brunt, a former England bowler, has recognised Smale's potential, suggesting that her recent form surpasses that of many seasoned players. Smale herself acknowledged her growth and maturity over the past year, setting the stage for a promising career.
Jacob Bethell
- Age: 20
- Team: Birmingham Phoenix
- Role: Batter & off-spinner
Jacob Bethell's cricket journey began in Barbados before he moved to England at the age of 12. Signing with Warwickshire, he made his professional debut in 2021. Bethell quickly made a name for himself internationally, serving as vice-captain for England Under-19s as they reached the 50-over World Cup final in the West Indies.
He gained further attention with a spectacular 15-ball half-century for Birmingham Bears in the T20 Blast, the second-fastest in the history of domestic T20 cricket in England. His left-handed batting adds crucial balance to England's line-up, and his developing off-spin makes him a potential successor to Moeen Ali.
Ian Bell, a former England batsman, praised Bethell's exceptional talent at a young age, even attributing part of his decision to retire to Bethell's emergence. Michael Vaughan, another former England captain, suggested that Bethell is on the verge of receiving an England call-up, emphasising his significant potential.
As The Hundred progresses, these young players offer a glimpse into the future of English cricket, each showcasing unique skills and the potential to become key figures in the international arena.