ECB announced it is delaying the first edition of the 100-balls-per-side competition until 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Global travel restrictions reducing the likelihood of international star names taking part, along with the limited chances of spectators being able to attend an event ostensibly designed to grow cricket’s appeal beyond its traditional fanbase were factors in the ECB opting for a delay.
Now the governing body has moved to minimise the financial damage of a decimated domestic season, following talks with the Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA).
“We can confirm that a letter terminating current player contracts has been issued today to all involved [in The Hundred],” said the ECB in a statement.
“This letter is necessary paperwork to legally update and inform players of the situation, which follows a notification last week around the launch of the new competition being moved to 2021. “We are working closely with the PCA on a number of options for players regarding next year’s launch.” According to a report by the Independent, players were due to receive 80 per cent of their salaries at the end of the 2020 tournament. The contracts have been voided via a Force Majeure clause written in that removes liability for unforeseen circumstances.
Along with the top cricketers from England many international stars including Aaron Finch, Mitchell Starc, Steve Smith, David Warner, D’Arcy Short, Glenn Maxwell were all snapped up on $150K contracts for the tournament. The new 100-ball competition, featuring eight city-based franchises rather than the traditional 18 counties, was due to begin on July 17.
According to the Independent, contracted players had already received a percentage of their wages for the tournament but were due to receive the bulk of the money – around 80 per cent – at the conclusion of the tournament.
