Fans roast Manchester Super Giants [Source: @CricCrazyJohns, @sambo2690/X.com]
The rebranding of Manchester Originals to Manchester Super Giants has officially marked a new chapter for The Hundred in the city. However, the launch event has already resulted in mixed reactions on social media platforms.
Although the presence of the Super Giants brand and performing stars has managed to excite the audience, the logo, comprising an elephant, that has been unveiled has caused quite a stir.
Fans make a mockery of the Manchester Super Giantsâ logo
As soon as the new badge was unveiled, social media was flooded with jokes and memes. Many fans questioned the relevance of an elephant to Manchester, a city traditionally associated with bees, industry and football, not wildlife.
Also, the logo is completely different from Super Giantsâ other franchises in IPL and SA20.
Hence, fans were enraged. Some called it âawfulâ, others labelled it âthe gully team logoâ, while a few joked that the elephant may have taken a wrong turn from Africa to Old Trafford.
Buttler and Mandhana lead a new era of Manchester Super Giants
Beyond the logo chatter, the cricketing plans are serious. Manchester Super Giants will retain England stars Jos Buttler and Sophie Ecclestone.
The womenâs side has been boosted with the signings of Meg Lanning and Smriti Mandhana, two of the most respected names in world cricket.
Heinrich Klaasen and Afghanistan spinner Noor Ahmad will also be included in the menâs squad.
The franchise, backed by the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group, is now part of a growing global network that includes Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL and Durbanâs Super Giants in SA20.
After five seasons without a Hundred trophy under the Manchester Originals name, the pressure is on the new-look side to deliver. With this mix of experience and star quality, expectations will be high from day one.
New coaches, a fresh start and a long-term vision
The coaching setup has also been refreshed. Justin Langer has been appointed as menâs head coach, replacing Simon Katich, while Matthew Mott takes charge of the womenâs team after Michael Klingerâs departure.
Both will work under Tom Moody, the Global Director of Cricket for the Super Giants group, who brings experience from international teams and successful franchise sides.
RPSG Group chairman Dr Sanjiv Goenka described the launch as the beginning of an ambitious new chapter, stressing long-term vision and investment in the UK game.
Lancashire Cricket will also play a key role, with Emirates Old Trafford set to remain the home ground.
The Hundred 2026 fixture list is due on January 27, with season tickets launching the same day. The competitionâs first player auction is scheduled for March 2026, which should add further intrigue to the build-up.










