England players likely to fetch big IPL contracts [Source: @ArianaNews_/x.com]
The Hundred 2025 is done and dusted, and the tournament witnessed some high-calibre performances, with excellent batting and bowling displays. Since the tournament is in England, several local talent showcased their skills and hogged the limelight in a tournament which is designed to entertain.
The players who have done well have also attracted interest from India, and in this piece, we will look at 5 England stars who were exceptional in The Hundred and could be sold for a hefty amount in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini auction.
1) Jordan Cox (Oval Invincible)
The leading run-getter of The Hundred 2025, Jordan Cox, had a remarkable season with the bat and finished as the best batter of the tournament. Batting at number 3, he dazzled throughout the season and the stats tell the story.
Criterion
Data
Matches
9
Runs
367
Strike rate
173.11
(Cox in The Hundred)
367 runs in nine matches, but most importantly, he had a strike rate of 173.11, showcasing his hitting abilities. IPL franchises love players who play an aggressive brand of cricket, and Cox could be in demand.
Teams that could target Cox
There are two teams that need a solid option at number 3 - KKR and RCB. KKR's batting looked weak in the 2025 season, and they need a solid number 3 who can be aggressive for them. Similarly, RCB could do with a better option than Devdutt Padikkal at number 3.
2) Zak Crawley (Northern Superchargers)
For all his aggressive batting prowess, Zak Crawley has never played in the IPL. In The Hundred 2025 season, the England opener was at his imperial best and could be a dark horse to join an IPL team.
Criterion
Data
Matches
9
Runs
280
Strike rate
160
(Zak Crawley stats in The Hundred 2025)
280 runs in 9 matches with a strike rate of 160 defined Crawley's Hundred career in 2025. Many IPL teams need a solid opener and they could run after the English superstar.
Teams that could go after Crawley
KKR has once again entered the list as they need to replace their openers from last season. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Quinton de Kock had poor stints, and the team needs a reliable opener. Also, with JFM and Faf du Plessis not firing, DC are also in line for a new opener.
3) Joe Clarke (Birmingham Phoenix)
Another gem from England, Joe Clarke represented Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred and finished as the tenth-highest run-getter in the league. However, it was his strike rate that became a focal point and often his role was to give a fiery start, which he did for his team.
Criterion
Data
Matches
8
Runs
229
Strike rate
153.69
(Clarke stats in The Hundred 2025)
8 matches played, 229 runs scored with a strike rate of 153.69, the Phoenix opener had a phenomenal season with the bat and it has attracted tons of buyers in the IPL.
Teams in IPL who could go after Clarke
GT have a solid top 3, with Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill, and Jos Buttler occupying the slots. However, post Buttler, the team doesn't have a reliable number four, and Clarke could fill in that slot. GT is known for buying underrate hidden gems, and they could go after the Englishman to fill in the gap at 4.
4) Rehan Ahmed (Trent Rockets)
The surprise package of The Hundred 2025, Rehan Ahmed, was the X-factor for his team, the Trent Rockets, and he was potent not only with the ball, which is his forte, but was outstanding with the bat as well.
Criterion
Data
Matches
10
Runs scored
189
Wickets Taken
12
(Rehan Ahmed In The Hundred)
He took wickets, he scored runs and contributed enough in The Hundred to bag IPL contract. Quality leg-spinners are always in demand, and Rehan has certainly improved his skills.
Teams that could take Rehan Ahmed?
With R Ashwin retired, CSK need a wicket-taking spinner, and Rehan Ahmed fits the bill. He can also chip in with the bat, a trait which the franchise likes in their players.
5) Josh Tongue (Manchester Originals)
Fiery pacer, Josh Tongue was exceptional in the Test series vs India, and he continued the same form in The Hundred 2025 as he represented Manchester Originals.
Criterion
Data
Matches
6
Dismissals
14
Economy
8.09
(Josh Tongue in The Hundred)
14 wickets in just six matches, with an economy of 8.09 showcases his brilliance with the ball. Plus, Tongue has an express pace and could easily rattle the opposition with it.
Teams where he could fit in perfectly
LSG have an all-Indian pace attack, and they certainly need an overseas pacer who can take wickets up-front. Also, RR, too, need an overseas pacer in their squad, and Tongue could be a good choice.