The 2026 Hundred season is set to see some major squad shake-ups, with four prominent England international cricketers joining new sides. Phil Salt, Ben Duckett, Sophia Dunkley, and Lauren Filer have all moved to new franchises, bringing experience, firepower, and pace to their respective teams.
Phil Salt Named Welsh Fire Captain
Phil Salt, the 29-year-old north Wales-born opener, will captain Welsh Fire in the 2026 Hundred. Salt, who has been with Manchester Originals for the entirety of his Hundred career to date, brings substantial global T20 experience, including stints in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
With 1,540 runs at an average of 38.50 in 50 T20 internationals for England, Salt is expected to be a key figure at the top of Welsh Fire’s batting order.
Salt expressed his excitement about the move:
“Joining Welsh Fire represents a very exciting new challenge, and I will take great pride in playing in Wales. It’s always special to play at Sophia Gardens, a place that holds so many great memories for me. Becoming the first Welsh captain to lead England on Welsh soil was a real honour, and getting the T20 win against Australia made it even more satisfying.”
Welsh Fire men’s team head coach Mike Hussey, supported by Ricky Ponting in a strategic role, said:
“Phil signing on as captain is great news for Welsh Fire. We’ve worked and enjoyed success together before, so I know from experience what he can bring to the group. His strengths and firepower with the bat make him a really exciting addition to the top order of any squad. I’m sure the fans can’t wait to see him step out for us as a proud Welshman in 2026.”
Ben Duckett Joins Trent Rockets
England opener Ben Duckett, 31, moves from Birmingham Phoenix to Trent Rockets. Despite a difficult Ashes series in Australia, where he averaged just 20.2, Duckett remains one of the most experienced and respected openers in world cricket across formats.
A former Nottinghamshire county player since 2018, Duckett is familiar with Trent Bridge and regards the venue as a “home ground” in many ways.
“Trent Bridge is already my home in so many different ways, so signing for the Rockets feels like a full circle moment, and I’m absolutely delighted. Without doubt, it’s my favourite ground to play at in England, and I can’t wait to play for the Rockets in front of the best fans in the country too,” Duckett said.
Sophia Dunkley Moves to Trent Rockets Women
Fellow England international Sophia Dunkley, 27, has also switched to Trent Rockets from Welsh Fire. Dunkley has made a significant impact in the Hundred, scoring 1,065 runs at an average of 31.32, including seven half-centuries.
“The platform that The Hundred has given the women’s game so far has been immense, and it’s an incredibly exciting time, so I can’t wait to see what lies in store with the Rockets,” Dunkley said.
Rockets head coach Chris Read highlighted her value to the squad:
“Sophia will be a brilliant addition to our squad. She brings proven run-scoring ability coupled with valuable experience, which will be crucial in key moments this season.”
Lauren Filer Joins Birmingham Phoenix
England seamer Lauren Filer, 25, joins Birmingham Phoenix for the 2026 season. Filer, known for her pace and competitiveness, has previously played for Manchester Originals, London Spirit, and Welsh Fire. She took eight wickets in six matches at an average of 12.12 during the 2025 season.
Phoenix women’s head coach Ali Maiden said:
“Lauren is an exciting young bowler with genuine pace and real competitiveness in her game. She brings an aggressive mindset and control that we believe will be crucial in The Hundred.”
Filer added:
“I’ve always loved playing at Edgbaston where the atmosphere is incredible. I can’t wait to get started with the team, bowl in front of the Phoenix fans, and contribute to what I know will be a strong season.”
Hundred 2026: New Rules and Auction Format
The 2026 Hundred season features a new player allocation system, with teams limited to four signings before the rest of the squad is filled through an auction. England batter Jacob Bethell and spinner Rehan Ahmed have also signed for Phoenix’s men’s side, highlighting the competition for top talent across franchises.
These high-profile moves add excitement to the upcoming season, with both men’s and women’s teams looking to capitalize on the experience and skill of England internationals. Fans can expect thrilling cricket as franchises integrate their new stars ahead of the 2026 Hundred kickoff.
Key Takeaways
- Phil Salt: Welsh Fire captain, T20 international experience, joins from Manchester Originals.
- Ben Duckett: Trent Rockets opener, experienced all-format batsman, joins from Birmingham Phoenix.
- Sophia Dunkley: Trent Rockets batter, England international, previously with Welsh Fire.
- Lauren Filer: Birmingham Phoenix seamer, known for pace and competitive edge, joins from Manchester Originals.
- Hundred 2026: Limited to four signings per team, remaining players allocated via auction.
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