Birmingham has always been cricket-mad, but to many others, the sport can seem slow, dated and boring. That’s where The Hundred stepped in. Described as an “action-packed, unmissable competition that fuses world-class cricket with blockbuster entertainment,” it’s helped revitalise the game and is now entering its fifth year. It’s guaranteed to turn even cricket haters into obsessive followers—and we’re expecting the whole city to cheer on Birmingham Phoenix.
What is The Hundred?
Launched in 2021, the 100-ball cricket tournament was one of the biggest shake-ups cricket had seen in years. Designed to make it faster and easier to follow, it sees eight competing teams try to reach as many runs as possible from 100 balls. The four-week competition sees both men’s and women’s teams representing cities across England and Wales and includes some of the biggest names in cricket.
A squad consists of 15 players, with up to three players from outside the UK permitted on each team. The league involves 32 matches, and at the end, the top three teams compete in the final (with the second and third teams competing in a knockout tournament to play the first).
Which teams play in The Hundred?
- Birmingham Phoenix (Edgbaston)
- London Spirit (Lord’s)
- Manchester Originals (Emirates Old Trafford)
- Northern Superchargers (Headingley)
- Oval Invincibles (The Kia Oval)
- Southern Brave (Utilita Bowl)
- Trent Rockets (Trent Bridge)
- Welsh Fire (Sophia Gardens)
When do Birmingham Phoenix play?
Birmingham Phoenix, led by captains Ellyse Perry and Liam Livingstone, features an array of exciting new talent, including Trent Boult, Georgia Voll and Emma Lamb, as well as fan-favourites Jacob Bethell and Emily Arlott—with each match day featuring both men’s and women’s games back-to-back.
The Hundred tournament kicks off at Edgbaston Stadium on Friday, August 8, with a local derby between Birmingham Phoenix and Nottingham’s Trent Rockets. Then, following this opening clash, Birmingham will host Oval Invincibles (August 12), London Spirit (August 17), and finally Welsh Fire (August 22).
Birmingham Phoenix will also play a further four cricket matches on the road as part of The Hundred: Southampton’s Southern Brave (August 11), Leeds Northern Superchargers (August 15), Manchester Originals (August 24), before playing Trent Rockets again (August 27).
“I’m absolutely delighted to be named as Birmingham Phoenix captain this year,” said new men’s captain, Liam Livingstone. “Moeen has done a brilliant job so far and I hope to carry on where he left off to take this team forward. The Hundred is always a highlight of the summer and both teams are excited to return to Edgbaston for another incredible season.”
Why watch the Hundred at Edgbaston Stadium?
Last year, Birmingham Phoenix’s men’s team came runner-up, before being knocked out by Southern Brave in the Eliminator. So, expect an exhilarating 100-ball cricket competition the whole family can get behind. With tickets starting from just £17 for adults, £5 for under 16s and free entry for children under two, there’s no excuse not to go!
There’s also dedicated family seating at the stadium, if you prefer, while this year, Birmingham Phoenix welcomes a brand-new resident DJ to the stadium to provide non-stop entertainment each match day, as well as a new music act performing live at every fixture. Plus, each ticket gives fans access to both the men’s and women’s matches on each day.
Birmingham Phoenix fans can also become part of The Hundred Club for exclusive perks, like all-new merchandise, the best seats in the stadium, and the chance to meet cricket icons and Birmingham Phoenix players. To learn more about The Hundred head here.