The Hundred 2026: Sun Group takes over Northern Superchargers while stars Sciver-Brunt and Capsey switch teams.
Hundred percent takeover
Is the traditional heart of English cricket ready for a total corporate makeover? The recent 100 per cent takeover of the Headingley-based franchise by the Sun Group signals more than just a change in ownership; it marks the definitive arrival of the “global franchise model” on British soil.
The team formerly known as the Northern Superchargers is shedding its skin. Along with a fresh identity, they have secured the tactical mind of Daniel Vettori as head coach. This isn’t just a coaching hire; it’s a statement of intent.
Vettori, paired with the retention of England’s rising star Harry Brook and pace bowler Brydon Carse, suggests a team built on explosive, modern, data-driven foundations.
The Chessboard of 2026
While Headingley rebrands, the rest of the competition is arming itself for a summer of high-octane rivalry.
The Trent Rockets have secured the most prolific batter in the tournament’s history, Nat Sciver-Brunt. At 33, she remains the gold standard for all-rounders, bringing a staggering 1,223 runs to the Rockets’ dugout.
- Tim David to Trent Bridge: The Australian “finisher” brings a career strike rate of 163, a terrifying prospect for bowlers at the relatively small boundaries of Trent Bridge.
- Capsey’s Birmingham Move: Perhaps the most intriguing shift is Alice Capsey heading to Birmingham Phoenix. After winning two titles with MI London (formerly the Oval Invincibles), the 21-year-old is looking to cement her status as the face of the competition’s next decade.
The Sun Group Strategy
Most reports focus on the names on the back of the shirts. However, the real story is the Sun Group’s 100 per cent acquisition.
By owning the entire franchise, the group can integrate the team into its global ecosystem, which includes the Sunrisers Hyderabad (IPL) and Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SA20).
This means Headingley fans might soon see a pipeline of international talent and coaching philosophies that were previously locked behind IPL walls.
The Transfer Logic
Fans often assume that players move purely for the highest paycheck. In the 2026 version of The Hundred, the logic is different.
- Venue Specialization: A player like Tim David choosing Trent Bridge is a tactical marriage. His ability to clear the ropes suits the ground’s dimensions perfectly.
- Leadership over Loyalty: For Alice Capsey, leaving a winning side like MI London for Birmingham isn’t about lack of loyalty. It’s about the opportunity to be the primary “anchor” of a franchise rather than one of many stars.
The Road Ahead
As the competition approaches this summer, the landscape of English cricket feels unrecognizable from five years ago. We are seeing the birth of a true “super-league” where private equity meets historic venues.
Whether you love the rebranding or mourn the old names, one thing is certain: the level of talent hitting the pitch in 2026 is unprecedented.
Summary of Key Points
- Takeover: The Sun Group has completed a 100 per cent takeover of the Headingley-based franchise.
- Coaching: Daniel Vettori has been appointed head coach for the men’s team.
- Key Signings: Nat Sciver-Brunt and Tim David join Trent Rockets; Alice Capsey moves to Birmingham Phoenix.
- Retentions: Harry Brook and Brydon Carse remain at the rebranded Northern franchise.