Welsh Fire are preparing to announce England international batter Phil Salt as one of their direct signings ahead of the 2026 edition of The Hundred, marking a major boost for the Cardiff-based franchise.

The 29-year-old opener, who previously represented Manchester Originals, is expected to become one of Fire’s top earners this season. According to sources close to the club, securing Salt’s services represents a “real coup” amid strong interest from several other teams competing in The Hundred.

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Phil Salt’s Career and T20 Credentials

Salt, born in Wales, brings significant experience in global T20 franchises, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), and has established himself as a key figure in England’s limited-overs setup.

• T20 International record: 1,540 runs in 50 matches
• Average: 38.50
• England debut: T20I against West Indies, January 2022
• Most recent England contract: One-year central deal awarded in November 2025

Known for his aggressive style at the top of the order, Salt has previously excelled in The Hundred, making him an attractive signing for the Fire as they aim to compete at the highest level in 2026.

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Direct Signing Strategy and Welsh Fire Ambitions

This season, teams in The Hundred are permitted to directly sign or retain up to four players before the main player auction, which is scheduled for March. Salt will be among Fire’s priority signings, demonstrating the franchise’s intent to build a strong, competitive squad.

In addition to strengthening the batting lineup, Welsh Fire are planning to bring former Australia captain Ricky Ponting into a strategic advisory role. While Ponting had initially been considered for the head coach position, the club has decided to retain Mike Hussey as head coach for the upcoming tournament.

Ponting, 51, boasts an illustrious career with 560 appearances for Australia between 1995 and 2012. He currently balances work as a television pundit with coaching roles in global franchise cricket, serving as head coach for Punjab Kings in the IPL and Washington Freedom in USA’s Major League Cricket.

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Ownership and Strategic Vision

Welsh Fire underwent a change in ownership last year, with IT entrepreneur Sanjay Govil acquiring a 50% stake, while county side Glamorgan retained the remaining 50%. The franchise is looking to leverage both investment and experience from high-profile figures like Ponting to enhance performance and fan engagement.

Salt’s addition to the squad aligns with this vision, offering a combination of homegrown talent, international experience, and crowd appeal. The Welsh Fire management hope that his presence, alongside other marquee signings, will propel the team into contention for the 2026 Hundred title.

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What This Means for Phil Salt

• A return to a Welsh franchise after previously playing for Manchester Originals
• Opportunity to showcase his skills in front of a home crowd in Cardiff
• Strengthened role as one of the key earners and senior players for the Fire
• Strategic mentorship from cricket legends like Ricky Ponting and coach Mike Hussey

Salt’s participation is expected to raise the profile of The Hundred in Wales and contribute to the league’s growing international appeal.