All four fixtures of The Hundred scheduled for Wednesday will be played under fully illuminated conditions, as organisers have decided to keep the stadium floodlights switched on for the duration of each game. This unusual measure comes in response to the partial solar eclipse that will sweep across the United Kingdom later in the evening, casting a noticeable shadow and dimming natural light for a brief period.
The eclipse is set to begin at approximately 6:17 p.m. and will reach its maximum obscuration just after 7:00 p.m., before concluding around 8:06 p.m. At its peak, the moon will cover roughly ninety percent of the sun’s disc, creating a dramatic twilight effect that will be visible from many parts of Europe.
While most of the continent will experience a partial eclipse, a handful of locations will witness a total eclipse, where the sun, moon and Earth align perfectly and the day briefly turns to night. During the peak of the eclipse the ambient light will fall sharply, temperatures are expected to dip a few degrees, and local breezes may shift direction as the sun’s heat wanes.
After a few minutes the sun will re‑emerge, restoring daylight and normal conditions. Because the timing of the eclipse overlaps with the scheduled start times of The Hundred’s matches, the competition’s administrators have opted for a proactive approach: the floodlights will be switched on well before the first pitch‑in, ensuring that players, officials and spectators are not caught off‑guard by the sudden loss of natural illumination. Additional signage and announcements will be placed throughout the venues to remind fans of the eclipse and to advise them on safe viewing practices.
The Wednesday lineup features two women’s games and two men’s games. In Cardiff, the Welsh Fire women will open the day at 11:30 a.m. against London Spirit women, followed by the men’s encounter between the same clubs at 3:00 p.m. In Birmingham, the Phoenix women will host MI London at Edgbaston from 3:00 p.m., and the men’s teams will clash at 6:30 p.m.
All four matches will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, and viewers are encouraged to use the Chrome browser for the most accessible video player experience. Beyond cricket, the eclipse will also affect the racing calendar at Kempton Park. The venue has a series of flat races slated for 7:00 p.m.
and 7:30 p.m., precisely when the eclipse’s maximum phase is expected. Unlike the twilight meeting at Ffos Las, which has been moved forward to guarantee daylight for all six races, Kempton can rely on its powerful floodlighting system at the Sunbury circuit. Clerk of the Course Barney Clifford recalled the last eclipse at Kempton nearly three decades ago, noting that back then the track was not equipped with floodlights.
"I’m going to put the floodlights on early doors," he said, "I know they have predicted a time for it but you don’t quite know how much of the sun is going to be covered and for which race, so we’ll have the lights on plenty early enough." Spectators are reminded that looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can cause severe eye damage. Only solar‑eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312‑2 safety standard should be used for viewing. Regular sunglasses, smoked glass, or homemade filters do not provide adequate protection.
Sky Sports will also issue safety reminders across its social platforms, including WhatsApp, urging fans to protect their eyes and to follow official guidance. For those who miss the live action, the entire Hundred season – from the opening fixtures through to the final on Sunday, 16 August – will be available to stream contract‑free on the NOW platform. Highlights, key moments and in‑depth analysis can be accessed on Sky Sports’ website and app, ensuring that cricket enthusiasts can relive every boundary, wicket and spectacular catch.
In summary, the partial solar eclipse on Wednesday will create a rare atmospheric spectacle that coincides with a full slate of high‑profile cricket and horse‑racing events. By keeping the floodlights on throughout all four Hundred matches and by preparing the racecourse lighting at Kempton, organisers aim to deliver uninterrupted entertainment while safeguarding the comfort and safety of players and fans alike. Stay tuned to Sky Sports for live coverage, and remember to enjoy the eclipse responsibly with proper eye protection.