The stage is set as the much anticipated The Hundred Men’s tournament is less than a month away from getting underway. The Hundred launched in 2021 by the England Cricket Board as a revolutionary cricket tournament in which innings consist of just 100 balls has quickly risen into one of the most valuable, lucrative and popular cricket leagues in the world. The 2025 season of the Hundred is going to be different from previous seasons as this season, private ownership...
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The Oval Invincibles have quickly risen to become one of the dominant forces in The Hundred Men’s competition since the tournament’s inception in 2021. Representing the Surrey Cricket County in the Hundred and based out of the historic Kennington Oval in London, the franchise has built its identity on balance, leadership, and delivering under pressure. While the early years were about settling in and building a strong core, recent seasons have seen the team transform into a powerhouse, boasting back-to-back titles and an aura of invincibility around their name.
The franchise was formed as part of the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) vision to revolutionize the sport with a fast-paced, 100-ball format. The franchise initially took shape with a strong English core and an experienced coaching staff, including former England coach Tom Moody. Under the captaincy of Sam Billings, the team grew season after season, steadily improving their game and squad depth. Their philosophy has revolved around all-round cricket, with a heavy emphasis on strategic bowling options and dependable middle-order batting.
After two mid-table finishes in 2021 and 2022, the team finally hit their stride in 2023. That season saw the Invincibles defeat Manchester Originals in the final to claim their first-ever Hundred title. It was a moment that changed the narrative around the team and marked the start of their dominant era. In 2024, they doubled down on their success, defending their crown by beating Southern Brave and becoming the first team in The Hundred Men’s competition to win consecutive titles.
Heading into the 2025 season, the Oval Invincibles,, the pride of Surrey in this exciting tournament are on the brink of history. With two trophies already in the cabinet, the men in green and white are looking to complete a rare three-peat and solidify their place as the most successful side The Hundred has ever seen.
Since the inception of The Hundred in 2021, the Oval Invincibles have built their success on consistency, both on the field and in leadership. While other teams have rotated captains over the seasons, the Invincibles have remained firmly anchored under the leadership of Sam Billings. The English wicketkeeper-batter has captained the side in every season to date, making him one of the most stable and successful leaders in the tournament’s short history.
Supporting him throughout this journey has been England’s star all-rounder Sam Curran, who has served as the team’s vice-captain from the very beginning. Curran’s role as Billings’ deputy has been crucial, providing balance in decision-making, leading the bowling group, and stepping up during high-pressure moments. Together, Billings and Curran have formed one of the most successful leadership partnerships in The Hundred.
Here’s a season-wise look at the Oval Invincibles’ captain and vice-captain duo over the years:
Sam Billings (Captain: 2021-present)
Sam Billings has been the heartbeat of the Oval Invincibles since the beginning. Appointed captain in 2021, he has brought calmness, tactical intelligence, and a deep understanding of modern white-ball cricket. Under his leadership, the team has grown into the most successful men’s franchise in The Hundred, with two titles (2023 and 2024) and three playoff appearances in four completed seasons.
Oval Invincibles record under Sam Billings as captain
Billings is known for backing his players, managing match situations smartly, and maintaining a positive team culture. His ability to lead from the front and absorb pressure in crunch moments has made him a natural fit for the captaincy role. With over 20 wins to his name as captain and a chance to make it three titles in a row in 2025, Billings is already an iconic figure in the history of The Hundred. Sam Billings has also been the fifth highest run scorer in Oval Invincibles history with 443 runs and a high score of 76*.
Sam Curran (vice captain: 2021-present)
Sam Curran has been the vice-captain of the Oval Invincibles in every season, and his role has gone far beyond just wearing the armband. A proven performer with both bat and ball, Curran has been central to the team’s success, leading the pace attack and contributing valuable runs down the order. He is the highest wicket taker in Oval Invincibles history with 33 wickets. His best figures of 5/16 against London Spirit in 2024 underline his ability to change games single-handedly.
Curran’s energy, experience in global leagues, and natural leadership qualities have made him the ideal second-in-command. Whether stepping in for strategic decisions or rallying the side in tough moments, Curran has been a pillar of strength for Billings and the entire squad.
With the same captain and vice-captain combination heading into the 2025 season, the Oval Invincibles will once again bank on their tried-and-tested leadership formula to deliver yet another title-winning campaign.
The Oval Invincibles, representing England in The Hundred Men’s competition, have emerged as the most successful and dominant franchise in the tournament’s short history. Since their debut in 2021, the Invincibles have built a formidable reputation, marked by consistent performances, strategic leadership, and back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024. Based out of The Oval in London, the team is known for its winning mentality and a well-rounded squad led by captain Sam Billings and head coach Tom Moody.
After a modest start in the first two editions, the Invincibles began their golden run in 2023, where they lifted their maiden title by defeating Manchester Originals in a tense final. They followed it up with another clinical campaign in 2024, going unbeaten in the group stage before sealing their second title by beating Southern Brave. These achievements have made them the only side in the competition to win consecutive titles.
Here’s a look at their team and individual records so far:
The Oval Invincibles' team records as of July 2025 underline their consistency and dominance in The Hundred. Their highest total of 189/4 against London Spirit in 2023 reflects their explosive batting capabilities, while their record of 7 wins in the 2024 season highlights a near-perfect campaign. With three playoff appearances and two final berths in just four completed seasons, the team has established itself as a tournament heavyweight. Even their lowest total of 113/9 shows resilience, as it came in an otherwise successful 2024 season. These records reinforce why the Invincibles are regarded as the most successful franchise in the league.
Individually, Will Jacks has been the backbone of Oval Invincibles’ batting unit, leading in most runs (790), most sixes (44), most fours (77), and recording their only century — 108* against Southern Brave in 2022. His consistency is matched by Jordan Cox, who shares the record for most fifties and leads in fielding with 14 catches. On the bowling front, Sam Curran has been a standout performer with 33 wickets and a best of 5/16, underlining his match-winning credentials. These individual records showcase the strength in both departments that has powered the Invincibles’ rise to the top.
Over the years, the Oval Invincibles have developed several rivalries that have defined The Hundred. These matchups have delivered high-stakes drama and close finishes, becoming fan favourites every season. Here’s a look at the key rivalries that Oval Invincibles have generated in these past four seasons.
This rivalry was born out of the 2023 final, where Oval Invincibles beat Manchester Originals to lift their first title. Since then, the two sides have shared an intense, competitive history filled with tight games and standout performances. Both teams are often among the top contenders, and their clashes feel like unofficial finals.
The Oval Invincibles and the Manchester Originals have faced each other five times till now in the four seasons of the Hundred men’s tournament. The Oval Invincibles have completely dominated this fixture as they have won four out of the five matches against the Lancashire team and boast a winning percentage of 80%.
The rivalry between Oval Invincibles and Southern Brave intensified in 2024 when they met in the final. Oval Invincibles emerged victorious in that game, completing their title defence in style. Southern Brave, known for their aggressive top order and strong bowling unit, always provide a tough challenge.
Much like against the Manchester Originals the Oval Invincibles have dominated their rivalry against the Southern Brave as well. The Invincibles and Braves have faced each other five times in the Hundred history and Invincibles have come out on top on four occasions including the 2024 final.
The London Derby between Oval Invincibles and London Spirit is one of the most anticipated clashes in The Hundred. Beyond just the points table, it's a battle for capital bragging rights. The matches are usually intense, with packed crowds and a fierce atmosphere.
The London Derby in the men’s Hundred has also been a one sided affair as the Oval Invincibles in the seven matches between the two sides have emerged victorious on an astonishing six times. The Invincibles have completely wiped the floor with their noisy neighbours in this rivalry.
This emerging rivalry has picked up pace in recent seasons, especially with both teams competing for playoff spots. The Northern Superchargers’ powerful batting line-up and the Invincibles’ balanced squad have clashed in some high-scoring thrillers. The intensity has grown, with key matches often going down to the wire.
Unlike their rivalries against Brave, Originals or Spirit, the Oval invincibles against the Northern Superchargers have provided thrilling contest against one another. With the head-to-head record evenly split, this rivalry promises to be one of the most exciting in the upcoming seasons of The Hundred. Both sides have the firepower to outdo each other, making every encounter must-watch cricket.
The Oval Invincibles have rapidly emerged as the most successful men’s side in The Hundred, and behind their on-field dominance lies a well-managed blend of traditional cricketing heritage and modern-day commercial power. With strong administrative foundations laid by Surrey County Cricket Club in the early years and a new era of private investment beginning in 2025, the team’s ownership structure has evolved to keep pace with the globalisation of franchise cricket. The Invincibles’ growing commercial profile has also seen a steady stream of high-profile sponsors across categories, further cementing their status as a marquee cricket brand.
In the first four seasons of The Hundred (2021–2024), the Oval Invincibles were owned and operated entirely by Surrey County Cricket Club in collaboration with the ECB. As one of England’s most storied and financially robust county teams, Surrey ensured that the Invincibles had a stable platform to succeed both on and off the field. Their rich cricketing tradition, combined with smart talent scouting and local fan engagement, helped the team establish a solid identity and consistent results.
However, the 2025 season marked a major shift in English cricket's structure. In a landmark move, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) decided to open The Hundred to private investment, aiming to bring in new capital and commercial expertise to strengthen the domestic game. As part of this process, the Oval Invincibles became the first team to finalise a partial sale, with Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) acquiring a 49% stake in the franchise for a reported £60 million, valuing the team at approximately £123 million.
Reliance Industries, owned by Mukesh Ambani, is no stranger to the cricket ecosystem. Their flagship team, the Mumbai Indians, is the most decorated side in IPL history. Under RIL’s global sports wing, the Invincibles join a growing portfolio of teams that includes MI Emirates (UAE T20 League), MI Cape Town (SA20), and MI New York (Major League Cricket).
The partnership combines the local cricketing heritage of Surrey with the international commercial acumen of Reliance. While the ECB retains tournament control, this joint ownership signals a new era of financial sustainability and global ambition for the Oval-based franchise. With the Ambani family’s sporting interests led by Nita Ambani, who also heads the Reliance Foundation, the Invincibles are now positioned to become a global cricket brand in the mold of Mumbai Indians.
The Oval Invincibles’ recent back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024 have significantly enhanced their marketability, making them one of the most sought-after commercial properties in English cricket. The team has partnered with brands across industries, reflecting its broad appeal to both legacy cricket fans and newer, younger audiences attracted by The Hundred’s fast-paced format.
Title Sponsors Over the Years
KP Snacks – As one of the ECB’s central sponsors, KP Snacks has enjoyed visibility on the team jerseys and ground branding across seasons.
Vitality – The health and insurance company has been involved as a lead sponsor and wellness partner.
Castore – British sportswear brand Castore has been the official kit supplier since the team’s inception, offering performance-driven apparel designed for high-intensity cricket.
As the Reliance era begins in 2025, the Oval Invincibles are expected to further scale up their commercial operations and global reach both on and off the pitch.
Oval Invincibles, one of the two London-based franchises in The Hundred, have developed a solid and steadily growing fan base since the tournament’s launch in 2021. While The Hundred as a competition is still in its growth phase, the Oval Invincibles’ success and visibility have helped them stand out as a fan-favourite side.
Being based in London, a city with rich cricketing heritage and a diverse population, gives Oval Invincibles a natural advantage in terms of reach and audience size. Their home ground, The Kia Oval, is one of the most iconic venues in English cricket and consistently draws strong local crowds. As one of the only two teams from the capital, their following spans not just across South London but also extends internationally, with many overseas fans tuning in to watch the franchise’s stars in action.
The Invincibles’ recent back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024 have elevated their stature and helped the team build a strong winning identity. Success breeds popularity, and being the most successful men’s team in The Hundred has led to a marked increase in social media engagement, merchandise sales, and cross-platform viewership.
The Oval Invincibles don’t boast a massive social media presence with only 40K followers across social media. Part of the reason behind this is that they are only on Instagram and Facebook and not on X (formerly twitter) and YouTube. The Oval Invincibles will need to scale their social media reach to make an even bigger brand value.
The team’s fan base is expected to grow even further following the 2025 acquisition of a 49% stake by Reliance Industries, the owners of Mumbai Indians. With MI’s global network and commercial strength now linked to the Oval Invincibles, the franchise is poised to expand its presence into the Indian market and among global T20 followers.
While they may not yet rival IPL teams in scale, the Oval Invincibles’ combination of success, location, and strategic ownership puts them in a strong position to become one of the most widely followed sides in The Hundred over the coming years.
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