Matthew Potts: The Hundred continues to be a family affair. The sixth edition of The Hundred began on July 21, 2026, with defending men’s champions MI London defeating SunRisers Leeds at The Kia Oval. On the opening day, families gathered in numbers, enjoying affordable tickets and a relaxed atmosphere. This unique 100-ball tournament aims to bring cricket closer to the masses.
The Hundred offers a budget-friendly experience, with tickets for children aged 3-15 priced at £5 and adult tickets starting from £14. Kids under two go free, allowing an entire family to watch two matches for around £30-40. This family-oriented pricing stands in contrast to expensive international cricket tickets, as noted by a father seeking the “family section” at the venue. Food stalls and ice cream vendors added to the entertainment, making it a welcoming event for all ages.
Significant ownership changes have reshaped The Hundred this season. The Ambani family acquired Oval Invincibles, now renamed MI London, while the Sun Group bought Northern Superchargers, becoming SunRisers Leeds. The RPSG Group purchased Manchester Originals, now Manchester Super Giants, and GMR Group holds a 49% stake in Southern Brave. These investments, totaling £520 million, signal a forward path for the tournament.
The atmosphere at The Hundred differs notably from mature leagues like the Indian Premier League. However, with Indian conglomerates now involved, the tournament’s growth seems assured. The family-focused approach, combined with reasonable pricing and entertainment, positions The Hundred as a sustainable and engaging cricket event for all.