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As the dust settles on the thrilling conclusion of The Hundred 2025, franchises are already eyeing the upcoming IPL trading window and mini auction. With the IPL trading window open, teams have the chance to swap marquee players before the auction heats up in December. But it’s the mini auction, scheduled for early January, that will truly set the stage for a blockbuster IPL 2026 season. Talent scouts and team strategists have zeroed in on five standout performers from The Hundred who are poised to become the most coveted names once bidding begins.
Top 5 The Hundred players who could earn IPL 2026 contracts
1. Jordan Cox
Jordan Cox’s explosive batting for the Oval Invincibles made headlines throughout The Hundred. In nine innings, Cox amassed 367 runs at an average of 61.16, striking at a blistering 173.93. His unbeaten 86* showcased not only his power-hitting prowess but also an uncanny ability to anchor the innings when early wickets fell. Cox’s 22 sixes and 30 fours underline his destructive range, making him an irresistible prospect for teams seeking a middle-order batter who can change games in a single over. His performances have drawn comparisons to some of the IPL’s most feared finishers, and franchises in need of late-innings fireworks will be circling his name on the auction list.
2. Josh Tongue
England’s fast-bowling sensation, Josh Tongue emerged as one of the tournament’s standout pacers, dazzling with disciplined line and length. Across six matches, Tongue claimed 14 wickets at an average of just 11.07, and maintained an economy rate of 8.08. His best figures of 3/21 highlighted his knack for breaking crucial partnerships and swinging the ball at pace. Tongue’s ability to deliver in death overs and bowl seam-up at speeds touching the mid-140s km/h make him a valuable asset for any IPL side. Teams looking to strengthen their fast-bowling unit will see Tongue as a long-term prospect who can thrive on Indian pitches and handle the rigours of a packed IPL schedule.
Also READ: Oval Invincibles clinch The Hundred 2025 title with convincing win over Trent Rockets
3. Zak Crawley
Opening batter Zak Crawley played the anchor role superbly for Northern Superchargers, scoring 280 runs in nine innings at an average of 40.00 and a strike rate of 160.00. His unbeaten 67* demonstrated his capacity to build innings, and Crawley’s patient strokeplay coupled with aggressive shot selection provides the ideal blend for IPL conditions. Crawley’s technique against both pace and spin, refined in English county cricket, should translate well to the subcontinent. Franchises seeking a reliable top-order presence who can lay a solid foundation will be closely watching his auction price, as Crawley brings both stability and acceleration to any batting lineup.
4. Rehan Ahmed
England’s young leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed quickly announced himself as a crackerjack spinner in The Hundred. In ten overs, he grabbed 12 wickets at an excellent average of 15.91 and an economy rate of 7.64. His best figures of 3/15 revealed a mature temperament and clever variations—traits that are highly prized in T20 cricket. Ahmed’s height and trajectory allow him to extract bounce even on flatter surfaces, and his googly and flipper variations keep batters guessing. As teams look for a spinner who can also contribute lower down the order with the bat, Ahmed’s dual skills make him a compelling candidate for early-round bidding.
5. Sam Billings
Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Sam Billings brings leadership credentials in addition to his batting and glovework. Although he scored 53 runs in seven innings at a modest average of 26.50 and strike rate of 151.42, it is his captaincy and experience that elevate his value. Billings has captained Oval Invincibles to a third straight title win in the recently concluded season and has IPL experience with various franchises, giving him insights into Indian conditions and dressing-room dynamics. His ability to marshal bowlers, plan field placements, and mentor younger players could attract teams seeking a vice-captain or captaincy backup. Billings offers a blend of tactical acumen, adaptability behind the stumps, and the occasional late-order cameo.
IPL auction strategies and outlook
With the IPL trading window running until December, teams can finalise core lineups ahead of the mini auction. Smart franchises will leverage trades to free up budget and squad slots for these emerging talents. Auction strategists must balance the desire for proven superstars with the cost-effectiveness and long-term upside of these five Hundred standouts. Expect bidding wars to erupt over Cox’s power-hitting, Tongue’s seam prowess, Crawley’s dependable starts, Ahmed’s spin variety and Billings’ leadership skills.
As IPL 2026 draws nearer, the convergence of The Hundred’s breakout stars and IPL’s grand stage promises a season rich in youthful exuberance and strategic masterstrokes. Franchises that unearth and secure these players could redefine franchise fortunes and delight fans with fresh match-winners across the country.
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