MLC, The Hundred overlap creates headache as committed players try to converge

Major Cricket League. (Photo Source: Twitter/MLC)

The second season of Major League Cricket (MLC) is scheduled to start on July 5. However, this year it will clash with the Hundred, as both leagues overlap for six days in July. This could lead to some overseas players arriving in the UK late for the Hundred. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has been in discussions with counties, aiming to reach an agreement this week.

According to their latest proposal, each Hundred team’s host county (or MCC, for London Spirit) would receive a 51 percent share, with the ECB retaining the remaining 49 percent. By the end of the year, the ECB plans to sell this 49 percent share and distribute the revenue among English cricket. This move aims to ensure the financial sustainability of both the Hundred and the English game as a whole.

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“Who gets what within that 49%? That’s where the conversation will be over the next couple of weeks. What’s the best way to spread that money around the 18 counties – if you include the MCC, 19 – to try and create a more sustainable, vibrant foundation for the county system?” Stuart Cain, Warwickshire’s chief executive was quoted as saying by ESPN Cricinfo.

Crossover that has caused headaches for organizers

The Hundred‘s group stage kicks off on July 23, while Major League Cricket (MLC) concludes on July 28, including knockout matches from July 24. Twelve overseas players contracted for the Hundred have already committed to MLC, with more likely to follow before MLC begins on July 5.

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Most of these players will remain in the US until their MLC franchises exit the tournament. This crossover has posed challenges for scheduling and player availability. It also impacts both leagues as they try to procure shared player pools and fixture clashes.