ECB Announces Equal Prize Money At The Hundred

The Hundred will offer equal prize money for its men’s and women’s events at the inaugural competition this summer.

The ECB says a total prize pot of £600,000 will be split equally between the men’s and women’s competitions as the governing body commits to making cricket a ‘gender-balanced sport’. 

“We’re really proud of our movement towards making cricket a gender-balanced sport and whilst we’re aware there is more to do in this space, this is an important step in the right direction,” said Beth Barrett-Wild, Head of The Hundred Women’s Competition.

“It’s recognition for the women’s players and the huge value they bring to The Hundred. 

“The ECB is committed to transforming women’s and girls’ cricket, from inspiring young girls to pick up a bat for the first time, through to establishing the women’s game as a professional career option. This announcement today represents one signal of intent towards that commitment.”

The ECB’s new 100 ball competition will take place during the school summer holidays in an attempt to attract a broader and more diverse audience to the game. After announcing FMCG company KP Snacks, who became the Official Team Partner, eight of the company’s crisp brands will sponsor all of the teams’ men’s and women’s jerseys.

Heather Knight, captain of London Spirit women’s team said: “This is a great announcement for women’s sport. Women’s professional cricket is on an exciting journey and whilst there is still a way to go to realise gender parity, this move from The Hundred is a significant step in the right direction. We’re all really excited about playing in the new competition and hopefully inspiring more young girls and boys to pick up a bat and ball.”

The Hundred runs from 17th July to 15th August 2020, while the women’s competition will start after the men’s on 22nd July and finish a day before on 14th August. It will feature nine double headers, with the women’s games played before the men’s at the same venues.