100-ball League: Franchises pick ‘wildcard’ players to complete rosters

The eight participating men’s teams in 100-ball League finalised their squads by selecting their ‘Wildcard Draft’ picks.

The league is a 100-ball tournament organised by the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) and will see leading cricketers (both men and women) competing for top honours. The 100-ball league starts on July 21.

The wildcard draft was the last chance for the men’s teams to fill up the final spot for a domestic player ahead of the start of the 100-ball competition, which will conclude on August 21. 

Leeds began the wildcard draft by picking up Durham all-rounder Ben Raine. “There were a few nerves flying around leading up to this because I think every cricketer in the country wanted to be in 100-ball League. I thought I’d had a decent Vitality Blast with the ball so I was hopeful of getting a spot,” Raine said in the media release.

Meanwhile, Oval London signed Kent youngster Jordan Cox while seamer Sam Cook went to the Nottingham.

The ongoing Vitality Blast T20 saw plenty of English youngsters exude their skills with the bat and ball. Given their recent exploits in the T20 league, next-generation stars Blake Cullen (19) and Dillon Pennington (22) were also absorbed in the draft.

Sam Cook, Nottingham’s latest addition said, “We’ve got some massive names in our squad like Rashid Khan and Joe Root and it will be great playing with them. It’s going to be fun and I’m looking forward to taking some wickets to help us get to the business end of the competition.”

Oval London’s Jordan Cox said, “I’m delighted to be taking part in the first year of 100-ball League with Oval London. It’s a fast-paced, exciting new format that I’m sure the crowds will love and I can’t wait to get playing in front of fans again, especially at the Oval which always has a great atmosphere.”

Complete list of wildcard picks for 100-ball League 2021

Featured photo: Twitter / Middlesex Cricket