The landscape of English cricket shifted dramatically yesterday (March 12) as The Hundred concluded its first-ever IPL-style player auction at Piccadilly Lights in London. This ‘New Era’ of the competition saw a massive influx of private capital, a 45% surge in the men’s salary cap to £2.05 million per team, and several high-profile franchise rebrands. From record-breaking domestic bids to historic international signings, the auction proved that The Hundred has firmly transitioned from its original draft system into a global financial powerhouse.

James Coles shatters records

The headline of the night was 21-year-old Sussex all-rounder James Coles, who became the most expensive player in the tournament’s history. London Spirit secured the young star for a staggering £390,000, outbidding heavy hitters like Sunrisers Leeds and Trent Rockets. Coles’ massive payday underscored the premium franchises are now placing on versatile domestic talent under the new private ownership model.

Abrar Ahmed roped in by Sunrisers

In one of the most discussed moves of the day, Sunrisers Leeds—owned by the Sun Group (owners of Sunrisers Hyderabad)—signed Pakistan leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed for £190,000. This move made significant waves as it marked a rare instance of an Indian-owned franchise recruiting a Pakistani cricketer, breaking a long-standing unofficial trend seen in other global leagues. Birmingham Phoenix also tapped into Pakistan’s talent pool, securing mystery spinner Usman Tariq for £140,000.

Aiden Markram becomes costliest overseas player

Thursday’s auction also delivered lucrative deals for several prominent names. Tom Curran secured a £260,000 contract with MI London, while veteran spinner Adil Rashid was picked up by Southern Brave for £250,000.

Joe Root became the first player to be sold in the bidding, joining Welsh Fire for £240,000. Meanwhile, Sunrisers Leeds turned to Dan Lawrence, signing him for £210,000 after missing out on Coles earlier in the process.

Among overseas players, Aiden Markram commanded the biggest offer, landing a £200,000 deal with Manchester Super Giants. The South African captain already represents two other franchises under the Super Giants banner — Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL and Durban’s Super Giants in SA20 — further strengthening his association with the group.

Also READ: ‘Shame on Kavya Maran’: Sunrisers owner faces backlash for signing Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed in The Hundred Auction

Complete list of sold players at The Hundred Men’s 2026 auction

Also READ: The Hundred Women 2026 Auction: Complete list of sold players with their price

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