• Investors want to attract best players in the world
• Decision on 2026 player draft expected in autumn

The Hundred could introduce an Indian Premier League-style open auction next year with the new investors who have bought stakes in the eight franchises pushing for unlimited budgets to attract the best players in the world.

Under the existing regulations the Hundred player draft operates on the basis of franchises taking turns to pick players at a number of set salary levels controlled by the England and Wales Cricket Board, rather than entering an open bidding war. While the Hundred salary pot has increased by 25% this season, with the highest men’s contract worth £200,000 and the best-paid women earning £65,000, there is a strong feeling among the new owners that it is insufficient.