Steve Smith signs with Welsh Fire for The Hundred 2025

Australia's star batter Steve Smith has joined Welsh Fire as their first direct signing for The Hundred 2025. The right-hand batter has been roped in on deadline day as teams start to finalize their squads ahead of The Hundred Draft, scheduled for March 12.

The 35-year-old was initially set to play in the inaugural edition of The Hundred in 2020, but the tournament’s postponement due to the Covid-19 pandemic prevented his participation. Now, five years later, he finally gets his chance to display his brilliance in the fast-paced 100-ball format.

"I’m delighted to be joining Welsh Fire later this summer. I was due to be involved with The Hundred at the beginning of the competition so it’s great to finally be able to make it to Wales. I’ve watched The Hundred from afar and I can’t wait to be involved. It looks a lot of fun and obviously, the cricket is world-class, with talent in every team. I’m looking forward to trying out a new format and hopefully playing my part for Mike Hussey and the rest of the boys,” the former regular Australian skipper was quoted as saying by the BBC.

Notably, Steve Smith joins a squad that already includes the likes of Tom Abell, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, and Jonny Bairstow. With Australian cricketer Mike Hussey being the head coach, the side is preparing for a strong campaign in 2025. In the women’s squad, Welsh Fire has managed to retain star overseas players Hayley Matthews, Jess Jonassen, and Shabnim Ismail. England batter Tammy Beaumont will continue to lead the side.

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“It means a lot to me to be returning to Welsh Fire once again. Over the past few years, we’ve built a strong core of players, and it’s great to see so many of them returning as we look to build on that together for another season. I can’t wait to get back to Sophia Gardens and play in front of our amazing Cardiff crowd. We’re determined to go all the way and win the competition this year after missing out so narrowly at Lord’s in 2024," she said.

Smith to become one of highest paid players in The Hundred

This year the teams were allowed to sign one men’s and one women’s player directly through private negotiations rather than exclusively through The Hundred Draft. The financial backing of private investors, including Sanjay Govil, who recently acquired a 50% stake in Welsh Fire, has played a crucial role in attracting elite players like Smith. 

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Meanwhile, Smith's signing is a 60% increase in salaries for The Hundred 2025, which has helped attract top international talent. Smith is set to earn 200,000 pounds for his stint with Welsh Fire, making him one of the highest-paid players in the tournament. Other big names joining The Hundred this season include Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan (Oval Invincibles), Marcus Stoinis (Trent Rockets), and the South African star, David Miller (Northern Superchargers).