A fresh debate has erupted in the cricket world after Lalit Modi predicted that England’s franchise competition The Hundred may not survive beyond the next few years.
Speaking publicly, the former architect of the Indian Premier League questioned the long-term business model of The Hundred and said the tournament could disappear within three to four years if it fails to generate sustainable returns.
His central argument focused on money. According to Modi, the league depends too heavily on advertising revenue, while the United Kingdom sports market is traditionally stronger in subscription-based broadcasting. In simple terms, he believes fans paying directly for premium content is a more stable model than relying mainly on ads and sponsorships.
He also criticized the tournament’s visibility, saying stronger promotion, branding and broadcaster investment are needed if the league wants to grow into a lasting global product. Without that momentum, he suggested franchise owners may eventually question the value of their investment.
The comments are especially notable because The Hundred has recently attracted serious money and attention. New franchise investments, player auctions and links with IPL-backed ownership groups have given the competition added credibility. Several teams now have backing connected to some of the biggest brands in world cricket.
Still, the tournament remains divisive. Supporters argue The Hundred has brought in new audiences, younger fans and families through a fast-paced format designed for entertainment. Critics say traditional formats such as T20 already dominate the market, making another short-format league harder to sustain.
For cricket fans in Canada, including the large South Asian communities across Brampton, Mississauga and the GTA, the debate reflects a bigger question: how many franchise leagues can the global game realistically support? With leagues expanding in India, South Africa, the UAE, the U.S. and elsewhere, competition for players, viewers and sponsors is intensifying.
Whether Modi’s prediction proves right or wrong, one thing is clear: modern cricket is no longer just about runs and wickets. It is also about business models, media strategy and global fan attention. The leagues that adapt fastest may be the ones still standing years from now.