ESSEX all-rounder Dan Lawrence has been selected by London Spirit to compete in The Hundred.

Lawrence was named in the first stage of the men’s draft and is set to represent the team, based at Lord’s, which will compete on behalf of Essex, Middlesex and Northamptonshire.

Also selected to play for Spirit were England’s World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan and Test opening batsman Rory Burns.

Lawrence’s inclusion comes after his explosive batting and impressive bowling helped Essex Eagles to clinch the Vitality Blast trophy for the first time in the club’s history.

The all-rounder also played a key role as Essex got their hands on the County Championship title for the second time in three years.

Meanwhile, England women’s captain Heather Knight and bowler Freya Davies will be involved for Spirit’s women’s team.

The players were selected in the first stage of The Hundred Men’s Draft, which culminates live on Sky, on October 20.

The Hundred is an eight-team competition spread across five weeks that is set to launch next summer.

England's Test stars were picked in the first stage of the draft process today, with 'icon' players from each side's catchment area also chosen, while the team names were finally confirmed.

Ben Stokes was chosen ahead of Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow by the Leeds-based Northern Superchargers, meaning the Yorkshire pair will not compete for their 'home' side in The Hundred.

The England and Wales Cricket Board's brainchild has led to some controversy since it was announced as a new format, consisting of 100 balls per side with traditional six-ball overs banished.

England Test captain Joe Root has joined Trent Rockets, while Jofra Archer will compete for Southern Brave.

Birmingham Phoenix boast Moeen Ali and Chris Woakes in their squad.

London Spirit’s women’s team will be playing their home fixtures at the Chelmsford-based Cloudfm County Ground and Northampton’s County Ground.