Cricket. But not as you know it. Fast. Loud. Bold. The Hundred is back, changing the game – and Manchester Originals are ready to light up Emirates Old Trafford again.
With 100 balls per side, world-class talent, and a full-throttle format that blends sport with sound, it’s cricket with a whole new energy. Over five electrifying weeks each summer, eight city-based teams – each with a men’s and women’s squad – go head-to-head in a high-stakes, high-volume spectacle.
But this isn’t just about runs and wickets. It’s about atmosphere. Think booming DJ sets, fireworks, and that unmistakable summer-evening buzz where the cricket is only half the story.
At the heart of it all? Manchester Originals is a squad built for fearless cricket and big moments.
With 50 days to go until the first ball is bowled, we caught up with rising star and local lad Matt Hurst to talk pressure, passion, and why nothing beats Emirates Old Trafford when the lights go up and the music drops.
A matchday like no other
So, what makes The Hundred such a good day out? For Matt Hurst, it comes down to action, accessibility and atmosphere.
“With the matches only being 100 balls per side, the game is consistent with fast-paced, non-stop action in a format that’s easy to understand for those new to cricket,” he explains. “A day out to watch The Hundred is great for people of all ages because it has a family-friendly atmosphere with music and entertainment throughout the day.”
And it’s not just about the spectacle, it’s the setting too. “The stadiums are close to city centres in those seven cities, so it’s easy for people to get to. And you’re guaranteed to watch some of the greatest players from around the world, so it’s an amazing spectacle.”
Proud to play for the North
Matt Hurst’s journey to the big stage wasn’t typical. Growing up in Wigan, he didn’t have much access to cricket at school. That’s why wearing the Originals shirt means so much.
“It’s an honour to represent Manchester and the North and play cricket on such a big stage,” he says. “Especially as I went to state schools where I didn’t have access to play cricket during school hours. Being given this opportunity to play in The Hundred and learn from the best players and coaches is great.”
Music, crowds and big moments
The Hundred isn’t just about cricket. The music, fireworks and buzz from the crowd turn every match into a proper show, and the players feel that energy too.
“With the music blasting, it’s a fun experience that feels more like we’re performing a show for the fans,” says Matty. “Being able to go onto the field with some of the best in the world and learning more and more whilst on the field is also great.”
And he’s making the most of those moments. “For example, watching people like Jos Buttler and Salty [Phil Salt] go about the game and picking up on the little techniques and styles that people like them use has really helped me to improve myself as a player.”
A crowd full of first-timers
The Hundred has brought in a whole new audience: families, kids, and people who wouldn’t normally watch cricket. For players like Matt Hurst, that’s a huge plus.
“Playing in front of such a variety of people has brought a different energy to the game,” he says. “The atmosphere feels more relaxed for me as a player, and the players also enjoy that the sport is being introduced to a new generation in an experience that is fun for everyone.
The games feel like a show as well as a cricket match.”
The journey from village cricket to the pros
Matt’s passion for the game started young, and it’s rooted in family.
“I first picked up the bat when I was very young and would go to watch my dad play at a local village team called Winstanley Park,” he says. “I’d play at the side of his games with my mates while watching him play.”
From there, things began to take shape. “I moved to play at Newton-Le-Willows, which took me into my first district team and county age groups. I then started in the Lancashire academy and moved to play at Leigh Cricket Club, which got me to where I am today since picking up my first rookie contract in 2022.”
Becoming a pro wasn’t always a sure thing, but it was always the dream. “As a kid watching cricket, it was always a dream to play professional cricket, so being able to do that now for a living is very special to me,” he says. “I’m proud of my achievements so far.”
Who in the Manchester Originals squad has the worst dress sense?
No hesitation on this one. “I would have to say that the worst dress from the Originals last year was Josh Hull!” laughs Matty. “I think it was loafers that he was wearing. Some of his footwear was the worst I’d ever seen!”
Don’t miss your chance to see it live
Catch Manchester Originals in action at The Hundred this summer at Emirates Old Trafford with their first game against Southern Brave on Wednesday 6 August already selling fast.
