# The Hundred Rules Explained: Format, Teams and How to Watch in the UK
Every English summer, eight city-based teams, 100 balls per innings, and rules deliberately designed to be simpler than traditional cricket. Since its launch in 2021, The Hundred has divided opinion — but nobody disputes its impact. With The Hundred rules explained clearly, even a complete newcomer can follow every ball.
This guide covers the full rulebook: how the 100-ball format works, powerplays, the eight teams, the draft, the 2026 season, and how to watch in the UK.
What Is The Hundred?
The Hundred is a professional franchise cricket league run by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). Each match features two innings of 100 balls per side — shorter than T20’s 120 balls — designed to fit into roughly two-and-a-half hours.
The competition runs annually in the English summer (late July to late August) with parallel men’s and women’s tournaments, double-headers forming the backbone of the schedule.
The Hundred Rules Explained: The Basics
100 Balls Per Innings: each team faces exactly 100 balls (unless bowled out earlier). The scoreboard counts balls from 1 to 100.
Bowlers: 20 Balls Max, in Blocks of 5 or 10: Each bowler may deliver a maximum of 20 balls per innings. Balls are delivered in blocks of 5. A captain can ask a bowler to deliver 5 or 10 consecutive balls from the same end.
The Powerplay: First 25 Balls: During the powerplay, only two fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle. The opening 25 balls are routinely the highest-scoring phase.
Strategic Timeout: Each bowling side may take one timeout of up to 90 seconds per innings.
Other Key Rules: A tied match goes to a Super 5 (5 balls each). Batters cross on catches. No-ball = 1 run plus a free hit (next ball).
The 8 Teams
- Birmingham Phoenix (Edgbaston)
- London Spirit (Lord’s)
- Manchester Originals (Old Trafford)
- Northern Superchargers (Headingley)
- Oval Invincibles (The Oval) — the most successful team
- Southern Brave (Ageas Bowl)
- Trent Rockets (Trent Bridge)
- Welsh Fire (Sophia Gardens, Cardiff)
Squads, Draft and Player Rules
Teams build squads through a draft system. Each squad has 15 players. Overseas players are limited — typically 3-4 per squad. England centrally contracted players are allocated. The salary cap keeps competition balanced.
The Women’s Competition
The women’s Hundred has been a genuine success story — equal billing, double-headers, record crowds, and a platform that has accelerated the professionalisation of women’s cricket in England.
The Hundred 2026 Season: What to Expect
The 2026 season runs late July to late August. Expect the Oval Invincibles to defend their dominance, new overseas stars, and the continued growth of the women’s game. Fixtures are typically announced in early spring.
Tactical Guide: How Teams Win
- Win the powerplay: the first 25 balls set the tone.
- Bowler matchups: 5-ball blocks allow precise tactical bowling changes.
- The middle squeeze: balls 26-75 are where games are controlled.
- Death hitting: the final 25 balls decide close matches.
How to Watch The Hundred in the UK
Sky Sports shows every match live. BBC shows selected matches free-to-air, including the finals. Streaming via Sky Go and NOW. BBC iPlayer for free matches.
The Hundred vs T20: Key Differences
- 100 balls vs 120 balls per innings
- 5-ball blocks vs 6-ball overs
- 25-ball powerplay vs 6-over powerplay
- Change of ends every 10 balls
- Strategic timeout for bowling side
Key Takeaways
- 100 balls per innings, 5-ball bowling blocks, 20 balls max per bowler
- 25-ball powerplay with 2 fielders outside the circle
- 8 city-based teams, men’s and women’s competitions
- Sky Sports (all matches) and BBC (selected free) in the UK
- Late July to late August each summer
FAQs
How many balls are in The Hundred?
100 balls per innings per team, unless bowled out earlier.
How many overs does each bowler get?
Each bowler can bowl a maximum of 20 balls (equivalent to just over 3 traditional overs), delivered in blocks of 5 or 10.
Where can I watch The Hundred free in the UK?
The BBC shows selected matches free-to-air including finals, available on BBC iPlayer.
When is The Hundred 2026?
Late July to late August 2026. Exact fixtures announced in spring.
Conclusion
The Hundred’s rules are simpler than they first appear: 100 balls, 5-ball blocks, one powerplay, eight teams. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, the 2026 season promises another summer of fast, family-friendly cricket.