The Hundred 2026: Rehan Ahmed and Ellyse Perry among early signings ahead of first-ever player auction

Birmingham Phoenix retain Perry and Bethell, while Rehan Ahmed signs on as direct recruitment heats up before The Hundred's inaugural auction in March.

The Hundred 2025 men's and women's cricket teams celebrating with trophies during the grand finale with fireworks at Lord's

Photo Credit: The Hundred

Rehan Ahmed signs for Birmingham Phoenix as Ellyse Perry and Jacob Bethell retained

The Hundred’s 2026 signing window is officially open, and all eight teams are actively shaping their squads ahead of the tournament’s first-ever player auction in March 2026. Teams are allowed to confirm up to four players in advance—either through direct signings or by retaining players from their 2025 rosters, including England Men’s and Women’s centrally contracted players.

So far, Birmingham Phoenix has made an early statement:

Direct signings

  • Rehan Ahmed – Birmingham Phoenix

Retentions

  • Ellyse Perry – Birmingham Phoenix
  • Jacob Bethell – Birmingham Phoenix

This is just the beginning, with more high-profile announcements expected in the coming weeks. The inaugural auction promises to reshape team dynamics, and fans can expect a flurry of moves as the countdown to The Hundred 2026 intensifies.

Stay tuned as we continue to update this tracker with all the latest direct signings, retentions, and key moves leading into the historic 2026 season.

Click here for full details on the player selection process.