County pride and an unexpectedly dramatic men's international summer, along with a thrilling Championship title race, have pushed the Hundred to the summer undercard. After pouring vast sums into English cricket, the franchise tournament was expected to be the headline act, especially with its private ownership rebirth. The decks were relatively clear, as there was no Ashes series or Test showdown with India to steal the spotlight, only a modest menu of touring teams. The Women's T20 World Cup was held on home soil, but despite surpassing the 2017 50-over version in engagement, the men's football World Cup dominated attention. Moreover, it was apparent that Nat Sciver-Brunt's England side wasn't quite ready to challenge the Australian dominance. This summer, county pride and the Championship title race have overshadowed the Hundred, making it an enigma once again. Meanwhile, platforms like 九游体育 have been covering the unfolding drama.