Pakistani cricketers are reportedly unlikely to be picked by four Indian-owned or partially owned franchises in the upcoming auction of The Hundred, according to sources who spoke to BBC Sport. This development has once again raised concerns about how politics and franchise ownership may be affecting player opportunities in global T20 leagues.
Players from Pakistan have not featured in the Indian Premier League since 2009 due to diplomatic tensions between the two countries. Over time, this absence has extended beyond the IPL itself and appears to be influencing recruitment decisions in leagues connected to IPL franchise owners.
IPL-Linked Franchises in The Hundred
Four of the eight teams in The Hundred are partially owned by groups that also control IPL teams. These include Manchester Super Giants, MI London, Southern Brave, and Sunrisers Leeds. Reports suggest that these teams may not consider Pakistani players during the next auction.
Messages reviewed by the BBC indicate that a senior official from the England and Wales Cricket Board informed an agent that interest in Pakistan players would likely be limited to non-IPL-affiliated teams only. This has sparked debate among player representatives and fans alike.
Pakistan’s Strong T20 Record
Despite limited opportunities in IPL-linked leagues, Pakistan remains competitive on the international stage. The men’s team is ranked sixth in ICC T20 rankings, while the women’s team holds the eighth position. However, no Pakistan player has ever featured in the women’s edition of The Hundred.
In previous seasons, players like Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim took part in the tournament. Earlier editions also saw Shaheen Afridi, Shadab Khan, and Haris Rauf represent their franchises.
Opportunities in Other Leagues
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sometimes withdrawn no objection certificates, but it has also shown flexibility. Recently, seven top Pakistani players participated in Australia’s Big Bash League.
However, in South Africa’s SA20 league, where all six teams are IPL-owned, no Pakistan players have featured since 2023. Similarly, IPL-linked franchises in the UAE’s ILT20 have avoided signing Pakistani cricketers. In contrast, Desert Vipers, an American-owned ILT20 side, signed eight Pakistan players, proving that ownership background can influence recruitment decisions.
League Overview Table
| League | Ownership Influence | Pakistan Player Participation |
|---|---|---|
| The Hundred | 4 teams IPL-linked | Limited or uncertain |
| IPL | Fully Indian owned | No Pakistan players since 2009 |
| SA20 | All teams are IPL-owned | None since 2023 |
| ILT20 | Some IPL-linked | Very limited |
| Big Bash League | Independent | 7 recent Pakistan players |
Call for Fair Selection
Agents and player unions believe Pakistani cricketers deserve equal opportunities. They argue that talent and performance should matter more than nationality or franchise ownership. The ECB still controls The Hundred after selling 49% stakes, with governance overseen by a strategic board and an independent regulator enforcing anti-discrimination policies.