Richard Gould, Chief Executive of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), has expressed his desire to make the Hundred tournament “bigger and better.” While speculations regarding changes to the format and the number of teams have circulated, Gould emphasized that such alterations are not currently on his agenda.
In a recent interview on the Final Word podcast, Gould discussed the value of the Hundred as a distinct offering in the cricketing landscape. He highlighted its ability to provide a point of difference in a crowded market and acknowledged the positive impact it has had on attracting global attention to the game. Gould welcomed the debates and opinions surrounding the competition, emphasizing that the ECB aims for collaborative improvements that involve stakeholders at every level.
Gould’s perspective has evolved since his tenure as Chief Executive at Surrey, during which he was a vocal critic of the Hundred. He now recognizes the positive returns brought by the tournament and its importance in establishing a prime-time domestic white-ball competition. With significant emotional and financial investments already made, Gould emphasized the ECB’s commitment to expanding and enhancing the Hundred, alongside the existing T20 Blast.
While Gould acknowledged the need to increase player salaries in the Hundred and international cricket due to the global player market, he highlighted the challenge of balancing revenues and funding the cricket pathway. Unlike franchise tournaments that focus on player remuneration, the ECB also prioritizes investing in the development of the sport at all levels. A strong and robust pathway, according to Gould, is essential for long-term success.
As the ECB looks to the future, Gould’s collaborative approach and commitment to progress are evident. The intention is to build on the success of the Hundred, create a stronger cricketing ecosystem, and ensure that everyone involved feels valued and has a role to play in shaping the game’s future.
