In a move that has sent ripples through The Hundred Women’s competition, West Indies all-round star Hayley Matthews has signed with MI London ahead of the 2026 season, ending a five-year association with Welsh Fire. The change of franchise marks a significant step in the 100-ball format career of one of international women’s cricket’s most dynamic performers.
Matthews, the 27-year-old right-hand batter and off-spin bowler, first joined Welsh Fire as a late replacement in the inaugural 2021 season. Over her tenure with Fire, she developed into one of the competition’s leading all-round talents, consistently influencing matches with both bat and ball.
Across 33 matches for Welsh Fire through the 5 seasons, Matthews amassed 795 runs at an average of 27.41, including four half-centuries and a highest score of an unbeaten 78 off 46 balls, a match-winning performance against London Spirit in 2024 that powered Fire to their highest successful chase in The Hundred’s history.
Her strike rate across those innings exceeded 130, underlining her aggressive approach and ability to accelerate the scoring in the crucial middle and death phases of 100-ball games. With the ball, she claimed 39 wickets at an average of 16.95, showcasing her value as a genuine dual threat.
MI London, formerly known as Oval Invincibles, rebranded in late 2025 following a strategic partnership between Surrey County Cricket Club and Reliance Strategic Business Ventures, bringing the iconic “MI” identity into The Hundred franchise fold. The women’s side is expected to benefit significantly from Matthews’ addition to an already strong roster that includes fellow overseas star Amelia Kerr.
Matthews’ performances in The Hundred have been emblematic of her broader global impact. She has delivered match-winning innings such as the unbeaten 78 that helped Fire chase down 151 against London Spirit in August 2024, a performance that earned her Player of the Match honours. Earlier in the same season, she had claimed 4-14 with the ball and contributed an unbeaten 35 to guide Fire to a comprehensive victory over Southern Brave, highlighting her genuine all-round value.
Off the field, Matthews brings experience far beyond franchise cricket. She has captained the West Indies women’s team and spearheaded their batting in global tournaments. Her leadership and tactical understanding make her an asset not just as a player, but as a mentor for younger teammates in the MI London squad.
The move also reflects the evolving nature of professional women’s cricket, with The Hundred increasingly drawing global talent and larger commercial partnerships. MI London’s acquisition of Matthews signals the franchise’s ambitions to compete for the title in the highly condensed and unpredictable 100-ball format.
For Welsh Fire, losing a player of Matthews’ calibre will be a challenge. She has often been the backbone of their batting and a key wicket-taker. Her departure will leave a gap in the Fire line-up that the franchise will need to address through strategic signings or promoting emerging talent.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching eagerly to see how Matthews adjusts to her new environment in London. With her proven ability to take charge in crunch situations and a record of consistent all-round performances, she is positioned to be a major influence for MI London in the 2026 Hundred season and beyond.
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