Manchester Originals men’s side have captured the signatures of three overseas stars in this year’s Draft, securing Australia’s Sean Abbott, Sri Lankan Wanindu Hasaranga, and West Indies’ Andre Russell, feared by bowlers around the word for his ability to smash sixes. A strong looking domestic line up will be further bolstered by the drafting of Laurie Evans as the side looks to build on their first campaign.

After lighting up the ICC Women’s World Cup, West Indian Deandra Dottin and New Zealander Amy Satterthwaite join a strong looking women’s side. The team have raided their rivals across the Pennines with Ami Campbell and Phoebe Graham also joining from Leeds-based Northern Superchargers. The new signings are rounded off with English bowler Grace Potts.

Deandra Dottin said, “I’m really excited to be joining Manchester Originals this summer. The first year of The Hundred was a breakthrough moment for the women’s game and it can go to another level this year. We’ve got some of the best players in the world and we want to make Emirates Old Trafford a fortress in front of our incredible fans.”

Andre Russell said, “I’m excited to get across to the UK and get on the field for Manchester Originals this season. Emirates Old Trafford always has a brilliant atmosphere and the fans seem really up for it! I’m looking forward to joining the likes of Wanindu, Jos, Salty and the rest of the guys and seeing what I can bring to the side.”

Sanjay Patel, Managing Director of The Hundred said, “With a host of star players confirmed, The Hundred will have fans on the edge of their seats with world class sport, as well as bringing more family-friendly entertainment off the pitch. In the women’s competition we have the best players from across the world taking part including Meg Lanning, Beth Mooney and Sophie Devine and we are confident we will set a new benchmark for the women’s domestic game.

“On the men’s side, it’s great to see a mix of new overseas stars like Kieron Pollard and Andre Russell alongside returning stars such as Quinton de Kock and Sunil Narine. It is also brilliant that some of the best domestic white ball players including Tom Banton and Joe Clarke have been recognised and picked up early. Get your tickets for The Hundred now so you don’t miss out.”

The Hundred proved a big hit with families and young people in particular relishing the mix of fast-paced cricket with music and family entertainment off the pitch which will only be bigger and better this year.  

Emirates Old Trafford will come alive with new concourse activities offering even more fun for all the family and a diverse range of great music acts through the continuing partnership with BBC Music Introducing. Year two of The Hundred will also offer a new range of merchandise to get the family kitted out in full Manchester Originals colours.

Manchester Originals get started at Emirates Old Trafford on Friday 5 August as the men’s team face rivals Northern Superchargers. The three double header days with men’s and women’s fixtures are set for Saturday 13 August against Trent Rockets, Tuesday 16 August versus Welsh Fire and Wednesday 31 August against Oval Invincibles.

Tickets 

Get your seat now so you don’t miss out on the sport and entertainment event of the summer – anyone signed up to www.thehundred.com will be able to snap up their seats from today (5 April) with tickets going on general sale on 20 April.  

The Hundred offers an affordable day out for the family, with U16 tickets priced at £5 and free for children aged five and under, and there are family-friendly stands in every ground.  

Make sure you don’t miss out - tickets have already been selling fast after last year’s buyers were given first chance to get their seats for this year.