The Hundred 2026 has been a spectacle of cricket, showcasing talent, strategy, and sheer athleticism. But what makes this tournament truly fascinating is the way it highlights the diverse skills and personalities that define modern cricket. Personally, I think the awards given by Stuart Broad, Nasser Hussain, and Lydia Greenway offer a unique lens to understand the game’s evolving dynamics. Let’s dive into what these choices reveal—and what they might mean for the future of cricket.
The Local Heroes: Beyond the Stats
One thing that immediately stands out is the debate over the best local player. Stuart Broad’s pick of Jos Buttler is no surprise—he’s a proven leader and a white-ball legend. But what many people don’t realize is how Buttler’s role in the Manchester Super Giants transcends runs scored. He’s the heartbeat of the team, a player who inspires confidence in the dressing room. In my opinion, this is what separates good players from icons.
Nasser Hussain’s choice of Ben Duckett, however, is equally compelling. Duckett’s flair and consistency at the top of the order for Trent Rockets have been remarkable. What makes this particularly fascinating is how he’s adapted his game to suit the format, excelling against both spin and pace. If you take a step back and think about it, players like Duckett are redefining what it means to be a modern opener.
Lydia Greenway’s selection of Tilly Corteen-Coleman as the standout local player in the women’s game is a nod to consistency. What this really suggests is that in a format as unpredictable as The Hundred, reliability is gold. Corteen-Coleman’s 13 wickets aren’t just numbers—they’re a testament to her ability to perform under pressure.
Overseas Stars: More Than Just Runs and Wickets
The overseas player category is where the tournament truly shines. Mitch Marsh, Stuart and Nasser’s pick, is a player who embodies the term ‘match-winner.’ What’s interesting here is how Marsh’s simplicity—his ability to belt the ball straight back or pull for six—makes him so effective. In my opinion, this is a lesson in not overcomplicating the game.
Lydia Greenway’s choice of Phoebe Litchfield, however, is a different kind of brilliance. Her dominance with the bat is undeniable, but what’s truly remarkable is her ability to keep bowlers guessing. If I was a captain, I’d be scratching my head trying to set a field against her. This raises a deeper question: how do you stop a player who seems to have no weaknesses?
Newcomers: The Future is Now
The newcomer category is always exciting because it’s a glimpse into cricket’s future. Nasser’s pick of Mitch Marsh might seem odd given his experience, but it highlights how The Hundred can rejuvenate a player’s career. Stuart’s choice of LD Pretorius, however, is a bet on raw talent. Pretorius’s stylish play and offside strength suggest he’s a player to watch. Personally, I think we’ll be hearing a lot more from him in the coming years.
Lydia’s pick of Charley Phillips is another smart choice. Her ability to take big wickets in crucial phases of the game is impressive. What many people don’t realize is how rare it is for a newcomer to make such an immediate impact. This isn’t just about talent—it’s about temperament.
Value for Money: The Unsung Heroes
The value for money category is where the tournament’s economics come into play. Calvin Harrison, Nasser and Stuart’s pick, is a prime example of how a late replacement can become a game-changer. His eight wickets and exceptional fielding make him a steal at £31,000. In my opinion, this is a reminder that sometimes the best signings are the ones you least expect.
Lydia’s choice of Charley Phillips again highlights her impact. At just £15,000, she’s been a bargain. What this really suggests is that in cricket, as in life, value isn’t always about the price tag—it’s about the return on investment.
The Entertainers: Cricket’s Showstoppers
The ‘love to watch’ category is where personal preferences shine. Adil Rashid, Nasser’s pick, is a player who brings artistry to spin bowling. His ability to toss the ball up in an era of flat darts is refreshing. Stuart’s choice of Trent Boult, however, is all about unpredictability. His quirky celebrations and wicket-taking prowess make him a fan favorite. Personally, I think cricket needs more players like Boult—players who bring personality to the field.
Lydia’s pick of Nat Sciver-Brunt is a testament to her class. Her ability to manage the game, even after injuries, is what makes her so special. What makes this particularly fascinating is how she balances aggression with control—a rare skill in T20 cricket.
Fielding: The Unseen Art
Fielding is often the unsung hero of cricket, but The Hundred has given it the spotlight it deserves. Nasser’s mention of Will Jacks’ catch and Stuart’s praise for Ben Duckett’s run-out highlight the different facets of fielding. Lydia’s choice of Bess Heath, however, is about more than just catches—it’s about attitude. Her energy and willingness to go for every ball are infectious. In my opinion, this is what makes a great fielder: not just skill, but spirit.
Captaincy: Leading from the Front
The best captain category is where leadership takes center stage. Sam Billings, Stuart and Nasser’s pick, is a no-brainer. His ability to lead Trent Rockets to the top of the table after winning three titles with Oval Invincibles is remarkable. What many people don’t realize is how much captaincy is about adaptability—something Billings has in spades.
Lydia’s choice of Dani Gibson, however, is a nod to resilience. Her ability to turn around SunRisers Leeds’ fortunes after a poor start is impressive. This raises a deeper question: is captaincy about experience, or is it about the ability to inspire? Personally, I think it’s a bit of both.
Final Thoughts: What The Hundred Tells Us About Cricket
If you take a step back and think about it, The Hundred 2026 awards aren’t just about individual performances—they’re about the trends shaping cricket. From the rise of all-rounders like Mitch Marsh to the importance of consistency in players like Tilly Corteen-Coleman, the tournament is a microcosm of the sport’s evolution.
What this really suggests is that cricket is becoming more dynamic, more unpredictable, and more entertaining. In my opinion, that’s a good thing. The Hundred isn’t just a tournament—it’s a glimpse into cricket’s future. And if these awards are anything to go by, the future looks bright.
