As the excitement builds for the 2025 edition of The Hundred, the Manchester Originals will open their campaign against Southern Brave in what promises to be another blockbuster clash. With a blend of seasoned internationals and emerging domestic talent, the Originals will be looking to make a strong statement. Ahead of this crucial clash, we take a closer look at the possible playing XI the Originals might field as they aim to begin their season on a winning note.
Beth Mooney
Recently named captain of the Manchester Originals for The Hundred 2025, Australian wicketkeeper-batter Beth Mooney is the kind of player who would slot into any T20 side in the world, regardless of whether she’s leading the team. The No. 1 T20I batter was last seen in action against New Zealand in March, where she showcased her class and was named Player of the Series for her contributions with the bat. In her The Hundred career so far, Mooney has played 13 innings, scoring 399 runs, including three half-centuries, at an average close to 40 and a strike rate approaching 140. With the captaincy reins in her hands, she will be looking to lead from the front with the bat and make her presence felt behind the stumps.
Ella McCaughan
The young opener is a promising talent who hasn’t had many opportunities to showcase her abilities in The Hundred. With a new season and a fresh start at a new club, she will be eager to make her mark on the big stage. She has already impressed in the 2025 Women’s T20 Blast. Playing for Hampshire, she scored 327 runs in just five matches, including a century and three half-centuries. The 22-year-old averaged 82 and maintained a strike rate of 153, highlighting her ability to score big and score quickly. Her form at the top of the order could provide the club with the strong starts they need.
Deandra Dottin
The West Indian hard-hitting batter will be a key asset for the franchise when a late-innings boost is needed. Known for her power-hitting, Dottin brings more than just aggression to the crease. With years of experience behind her, she knows exactly when to accelerate and how to finish an innings effectively in the death overs. In addition to her batting, she can contribute with the ball, delivering useful overs in the middle and at the death. Her all-round skills and composure under pressure add valuable balance and depth to the squad.
Amelia Kerr
Amelia Kerr is a valuable addition to any squad. Her genuine leg-spin and consistent contributions with the bat make her a key player if the Originals are to make a serious push this season. The young all-rounder was in fine form during the recent three-match series against Australia, scoring 157 runs. Prior to that, she starred in the WPL, where she picked up 18 wickets, claimed the Purple Cap, and played a crucial role in helping the Mumbai Indians secure another title.
Evelyn Jones
A seasoned veteran of the English domestic circuit, Jones is a left-handed batter who adds balance to the batting order. In the recently concluded Women’s T20 Blast, she scored 221 runs while maintaining a strike rate of 110. With her experience, she will be an essential asset for the club this season.
Seren Smale
Seren Smale has emerged as a promising talent for England in recent years. She earned a call-up to the senior national side for the series against Ireland last year, marking an important step in her young career. In addition to her batting abilities, the 20-year-old also serves as the backup wicketkeeper to Beth Mooney for the Manchester Originals.
Alice Monaghan
Although Monaghan hasn’t had many opportunities in The Hundred so far, she will be eager to make her mark in the upcoming season. Her recent form in domestic competitions, combined with her all-round skills, makes her a strong contender for a spot in the Manchester Originals’ playing XI.
Fi Morris
An experienced off-spinning all-rounder, Fi Morris contributes with both ball and bat. In her Hundred career, she has taken 15 wickets while maintaining an economy rate under 8 in the fast-paced league. She also boasts a five-wicket haul from the 2023 season. With the ability to add crucial runs down the order, Morris is a vital part of the club’s lineup.
Sophie Ecclestone
Sophie Ecclestone is widely regarded as one of the best T20 bowlers in the world, and her numbers back it up. With the experience she brings, she is expected to lead the bowling attack for the Manchester Originals. She has picked up 25 wickets in The Hundred so far and also has contributed with the bat. Returning from a well-being break and with a change in leadership at the club, Ecclestone will be looking to play with freedom and give her all with both ball and bat. Her focus will be on helping the team push for their maiden title.
Lauren Filer
Lauren Filer is one of the emerging fast bowlers in the senior English setup. With her raw pace and control, she can be dangerous with the new ball, especially in English conditions. So far, she has taken 10 wickets in The Hundred while maintaining an economy rate under 8. Filer will be vital in providing early breakthroughs with the new ball for her team.
Mahika Gaur
At just 17, left-arm medium-fast bowler Mahika Gaur has already made her debut for England, having previously represented the UAE. The left-armer can make the new ball talk and bowl tight lines, allowing batters the option to score freely in the latter stages of the match. In the domestic circuit, she has been a consistent wicket-taker for Lancashire and will be eager to replicate that success for the Manchester Originals.
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