England all rounder Danielle Gibson became the top earning English player at the first The Hundred auction, signing a £190,000 contract with Sunrisers Leeds ahead of the 2026 season.
The London based auction marked a major milestone for women’s cricket, offering players unprecedented earning potential. Gibson’s contract surpassed those of established England stars such as captain Nat Sciver Brunt and fast bowler Lauren Bell, who had agreed to smaller pre auction deals.
Gibson, who has faced injury setbacks and has not played for England since late 2024, was still highly sought after, with Sunrisers Leeds winning a competitive bidding war to secure her services.
Two overseas stars, Australia’s Beth Mooney and New Zealand’s Sophie Devine, received even larger offers of £210,000 each, highlighting the increasing market value of elite talent in the Hundred.
The auction also shone a spotlight on emerging talent, with teenage spinner Tilly Corteen Coleman earning a £105,000 contract, demonstrating growing opportunities for young players in the women’s game.
The 2026 season of The Hundred is set to run from 21 July to 16 August, and Gibson’s record deal has already set the tone for an exciting and competitive tournament.