MI London Start The Hundred 2026 with Convincing Victory as Curran, Pooran Shine

Defending champions MI London made a winning start to The Hundred 2026, defeating Sunrisers Leeds by seven wickets in the opening men's match at the Kia Oval. Chasing a target of 144, MI London completed the task in just 84 balls, setting the tone for another promising campaign in the tournament's sixth season.

The chase was not entirely straightforward at the beginning, with MI London reduced to 51/3. However, captain Sam Curran and wicketkeeper-batter Nicholas Pooran turned the game around with a breathtaking partnership. The pair added 93 runs in only 40 balls, taking the match away from Sunrisers Leeds and thrilling the crowd with their aggressive stroke play.

Curran anchored the innings with a composed 60 off 39 balls, while Pooran produced a match-winning blitz, smashing 58 from just 22 deliveries. Their stand ensured MI London crossed the finish line comfortably with plenty of balls remaining.

Adding to the occasion, Rohit Sharma was spotted in the stands alongside Nita Ambani, watching the franchise begin its title defense in style. The presence of the Mumbai Indians family further highlighted the growing connection between IPL-backed owners and The Hundred's newly rebranded teams.

The opening day also featured the women's contest, where Sunrisers Leeds Women secured a seven-wicket victory over MI London Women. Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma played a key role with the ball, returning figures of 2/20, while Phoebe Litchfield contributed an unbeaten 43 to guide her side to victory.

The sixth edition of The Hundred will run until August 16, featuring several franchises linked to IPL ownership groups. With explosive batting, international stars, and intense rivalries already on display, the tournament promises another exciting month of cricket across England and Wales.