![Sam Curran named new captain of MI London. [Source - @samcurran58/Instagram]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1768373673583_SamCurrannamednewcaptainofMILondon.jpg?type=hq)
Sam Curran named new captain of MI London. [Source - @samcurran58/Instagram]
The Oval Invincibles have officially entered a new chapter after being rebranded as Mumbai Indians London, following Mumbai Indians’ takeover ahead of The Hundred 2026. The transition marks the beginning of a fresh era for one of the competition’s most successful franchises.
As part of the new setup, MI London confirmed their pre-auction signings and leadership group, with England all-rounder Sam Curran named as captain. The decision gives us a hint of a clear shift in direction as the franchise looks to build on its dominant legacy.
With ownership changes, a new name, and fresh leadership in place, Mumbai Indians London are preparing for a transformed edition of The Hundred. The franchise will aim to maintain its winning ways while also representing the MI philosophy across both men’s and women’s teams.
End of Sam Billings era as Sam Curran named Mumbai Indians London captain
Mumbai Indians London have entrusted Sam Curran with the captaincy ahead of the 2026 season, ending Sam Billings’ leadership reign after three consecutive title-winning campaigns. The move shows us a long-term vision as the franchise reshapes its identity under new ownership.
Sam Curran has been a consistent performer for the team across five editions of The Hundred. The left-arm all-rounder has scored 757 runs across 37 games while also claiming 45 wickets, making him one of the franchise’s most valuable players.
While Sam Billings is no longer part of the leadership group, the door remains open for his return through the auction. His impact as captain and batter remains significant, but MI London have chosen Curran as the face of their new beginning.
MI London confirm three key pre-auction signings
Alongside Sam Curran, MI London have retained Will Jacks, the franchise’s all-time leading run-scorer. Jacks has been an important part of the team since 2021 and remains one of the most reliable top-order batters in the tournament.
The franchise have also signed Danni Wyatt-Hodge as their women’s marquee player. A proven Hundred performer, Wyatt-Hodge brings experience and aggression, and currently stands as the second-highest run-scorer in the history of The Hundred Women’s competition.
With Curran, Jacks, and Wyatt-Hodge secured, Mumbai Indians London have used their pre-auction picks to get some of the best proven match-winners as the trio provides balance, aggression, leadership, and continuity as the team prepares for the upcoming auctions.
MI London aim to carry forward Oval Invincibles’ winning tradition
Renamed from Oval Invincibles, MI London take over a proud history, having won three men’s titles and two women’s titles, making them the most successful team in The Hundred so far. Their challenge now is to keep that success going under the MI name.
With MI’s global experience and Sam Curran as captain, Mumbai Indians London enter 2026 with clear goals and ambition. As the player auctions get closer and squads take shape, the team’s new look shows confidence, stability, and a strong aim to stay at the top.
