Sky Sports Cricket analysts Nasser Hussain and Stuart Broad have handed out their personal player awards for the 2026 men’s Hundred season, while former England cricketer Lydia Greenway has shared her selections for the women’s competition. Their comments highlight standout performances, emerging talents and value‑for‑money signings across both tournaments. Jos Buttler, playing for Manchester Super Giants, earned Broad's admiration for his role in the eliminator.
Broad praised Buttler as "England's greatest white‑ball batsman" and a true franchise icon. He highlighted Buttler's ability to deliver crucial runs when the pressure is highest and noted his leadership within the dressing room, suggesting that Buttler could be the catalyst for a title win.
Ben Duckett was singled out by Hussain for his seamless progression to the final with the Trent Rockets, bypassing the eliminator entirely. Hussain lauded Duckett's versatility at the top of the order, pointing out his skill against both spin and pace, his willingness to play unconventional shots, and his excellence in the field. The analyst emphasized Duckett's confidence and flair, describing his performances as "brilliant" and "very impressive." In the women's game, Greenway chose Tilly Corteen‑Coleman as the leading wicket‑taker, having claimed 13 scalps.
Greenway commended her consistency not just this season but over several years, noting that Corteen‑Coleman's ability to lead the wicket charts demonstrates her growing stature in the competition. Mitch Marsh received high marks from Broad, who described his innings as "eye‑catching" and highlighted his dominance at Headingley, one of the country's premier batting venues.
Broad noted that Marsh has fulfilled the classic overseas marquee role: setting the tone, leading from the front, and steering his side to victories. Statistical evidence was offered – Marsh's average is higher in winning matches, and his strike rate hovers around 170 – underscoring his importance as a strategic signing. Broad also compared Marsh's consistency to that of Harry Brook, explaining that while Brook has thrived on the fast, bouncy surface at Headingley, Marsh has shown adaptability by scoring heavily at Trent Bridge, Manchester and other grounds. Broad praised Marsh's straightforward batting style: a simple, powerful technique that rewards even a slight change in length with a six‑hit response.
He added a personal note, calling the Australian a "nice top bloke" who plays with unpretentious elegance. Greenway turned her attention to the overseas women's category, selecting Phoebe Litchfield as the top performer.
Litchfield topped the run‑scoring charts and has consistently dismantled opposition bowling attacks. Greenway described her as being in "the form of her life", capable of hitting straight down the ground, behind square, and opening up the square region on both sides. Litchfield's signature switch‑hit was highlighted as a nightmare for captains trying to set a field, making her the most dangerous batter in the competition at present. Broad identified Mitch Marsh as a newcomer to The Hundred, noting that this was his first season in the format despite a long international career.
He emphasized that Marsh arrived with no prior Hundred experience and quickly adapted, proving his value beyond just his age. Hussain turned his focus to a relatively unknown talent, LD Pretorius, who made his debut in The Hundred for the first time.
Hussain explained that Pretorius had not yet made a name for himself in English domestic cricket, but his performance on the challenging Lord's surface impressed the analyst. Pretorius displayed a strong off‑side game, a crisp pick‑up over square leg, and a stylish approach that suggests he could become a household name within five years. Greenway highlighted Charley Phillips as a key bowler who maximised her opportunities, taking seven wickets and delivering in various phases of the game. She also mentioned Calvin Harrison, a late‑season replacement for the Trent Rockets who earned a modest £31,000 salary yet claimed eight wickets and produced spectacular catches.
Greenway argued that Harrison's all‑round abilities – solid batting when required and high‑impact bowling – make him a candidate for future England selection across formats. Broad later admitted that his earlier assessment of value for money had missed the mark when it came to Adil Rashid, who commanded a £250,000 contract. While Rashid has been successful, Broad reflected that spending a quarter of a million pounds for eight games is a steep price, even though Rashid consistently delivers with his leg spin. He compared Rashid's cost to higher‑priced stars like Harry Brook (£465k) and Jofra Archer (£450k), suggesting that Rashid offers a more economical option.
Greenway reinforced Rashid's importance, noting that in an era where spinners are often forced to bowl flat and fast, Rashid still dares to flight the ball and employ a variety of variations. She praised his bravery and skill, calling him one of the best spinners in the game today.
Broad also praised Trent Boult for his entertaining on‑field antics and a memorable inswinger that dismissed Jonny Bairstow at Lord's – a delivery he described as the "ball of the tournament". Boult's quirky celebrations and unpredictable nature make him a fan favourite, and his ability to generate excitement with each new ball adds a unique flavour to the competition.
Greenway selected Nat Sciver‑Brunt despite her intermittent appearances due to a calf injury. When fit, Sciver‑Brunt displays class, exemplified by a reverse sweep on the first ball of a match that set the tone for a high strike‑rate innings. Greenway values her versatility, her ability to play both aggressive and defensive shots, and the significant impact she provides for the Trent Rockets. Broad highlighted Chris Jordan as arguably the best fielder in The Hundred’s history, but he also drew attention to a spectacular catch by Will Jacks off Pretorius.
The catch required precise timing and athleticism, showcasing the high fielding standards present throughout the tournament. Hussain praised Ben Duckett for a remarkable diving catch that turned a potential run‑out into a game‑changing moment. Duckett's quick reflexes and accurate throw emphasized the importance of fielding in close matches, especially when targeting key opposition players like Nicky Pooran. Greenway commended Bess Heath for her proactive attitude toward catching, even though she may not lead in total catches.
Heath's willingness to chase down balls, often taking spectacular catches that many players would let bounce, demonstrates her commitment and adds valuable energy to the side. Sam Billings was recognized by Broad for his leadership qualities. After three consecutive Hundred titles with the Oval Invincibles, Billings moved to the Trent Rockets, where his experience and aggressive mindset helped guide the side to the final. Broad noted Billings' desire to prove himself after a contentious departure from MI London, describing his determination as a key factor in the Rockets' success.
Greenway praised Dani Gibson, who captained the SunRisers Leeds through a difficult period of three consecutive losses and then orchestrated a turnaround. Gibson's media presence, energetic leadership, and tactical growth under head coach Adrian Birrell have made her a standout figure in the women's competition. Overall, the analysts' selections paint a picture of a dynamic Hundred season filled with seasoned veterans, promising newcomers, and players who offer excellent value for money.
Their insights underline the importance of versatility, leadership, and consistent performance in a fast‑paced tournament where every run and wicket can swing the balance of a match.