Former India Test captain Ajinkya Rahane joined BBC Sport’s commentary team for the sixth edition of The Hundred, becoming the only Indian on the broadcaster’s star-studded panel for the 2026 season.
Rahane features alongside World Cup-winning England pacer Mark Wood, former New Zealand international Katey Martin and current England Test opener Emilio Gay, and Isa Guha, Alex Hartley, Michael Vaughan, Phil Tufnell, Sir Alastair Cook, Tymal Mills, Ebony Rainford-Brent, Dawid Malan, Amanda-Jade Wellington and Carlos Brathwaite.
The sixth edition of The Hundred marks the beginning of a new chapter for the competition following significant private investment and refreshed team identities. The tournament got underway on July 21, with defending men’s champions MI London, formerly Oval Invincibles, making a winning start to their title defence by defeating Sunrisers Leeds in the opening fixture. In the women’s competition, defending champions Sunrisers Leeds, formerly Northern Superchargers, also began their campaign with a victory in their season opener.
Reflecting on his experience behind the microphone, Rahane said: “Back in the UK for another summer, but this time with the microphone instead of the bat. It’s been a pleasure being part of the BBC’s coverage of The Hundred. Great cricket, wonderful conversations, and there’s something special about spending a summer morning at the grounds here. Looking forward to the rest of the tournament!”
Rahane’s presence on the panel adds the perspective of one of India’s most accomplished Test cricketers. A former India Test captain, he famously led the side to a historic series triumph in Australia in 2020-21 after taking over the captaincy midway through the tour.
Widely regarded as one of India’s most dependable batters in overseas conditions, Rahane has scored Test centuries in England, Australia and New Zealand, earning a reputation for performing in the toughest conditions. His experience at the highest level makes him a valuable addition to BBC Sport’s coverage, as The Hundred embarks on a transformative new phase.
