The Hundred 2023: Sophie Ecclestone named Manchester Originals skipper

England spinner Sophie Ecclestone is all set to lead Manchester Originals ahead of the forthcoming edition of the Hundred. The competition is scheduled to kickstart on Tuesday, August 1, with both men’s and women’s games to take place on the same day.

Ahead of the Hundred 2023, Ecclestone expressed her delight in leading the Originals and added that she had a good feeling with the current setup after the Draft.

"I'm buzzing to be captaining Manchester Originals this year. The Hundred is such a great competition to take part in, and I can't wait to lead the girls out at Emirates Old Trafford. I like what we've done in the draft, we've got the makings of a world-class side, and hopefully, our fans will come out in their numbers as ever to cheer us on,” Ecclestone was quoted as saying by Sky Sports.

The Ecclestone-led Manchester Originals will commence their campaign as they lock horns with the Welsh Fire on Wednesday, August 2, at the Sophia Gardens in Cardiff. Notably, the 24-year-old spinner has claimed 97 wickets in 70 T20I appearances and is ranked first in the ICC Women's T20I Bowling Rankings. 

It is worth mentioning that former Lancashire and England left-arm spinner Stephen Parry will take over the coaching duties for the forthcoming season. The franchise confirmed the appointment in January after former English cricketer Paul Shaw stepped down from the role.

Jos Buttler to lead Men’s team

Notably, English star batter Jos Buttler will shoulder the leadership responsibilities of the Men’s team for the upcoming season. Buttler will play alongside the likes of Phil Salt, Wanindu Hasaranga, Ashton Turner, and Joshua Little, among others.

Men’s Team- Jos Buttler (c), Wanindu Hasaranga, Phil Salt, Laurie Evans, Ashton Turner, Jamie Overton, Tom Hartley, Richard Gleeson, Paul Walter, Josh Tongue, Josh Little, Wayne Madsen, Tom Lammonby, Mitchell Stanley

Women’s Team- Laura Wolvaardt, Sophie Ecclestone (c), Amanda-Jade Wellington, Deandra Dottin, Kathryn Bryce, Emma Lamb, Katie George, Ellie Threlkeld, Fi Morris, Phoebe Graham, Liberty Heap