In a decisive move to quell rising tensions, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has firmly dismissed rumors that Indian-owned teams in The Hundred would blacklist Pakistani players from the upcoming auction. The controversy erupted last week when reports surfaced suggesting that four franchises backed by IPL heavyweights might sideline the 67 registered Pakistani cricketers—63 men and four women—citing geopolitical sensitivities.
On Tuesday, ECB alongside all eight Hundred franchises issued a joint statement categorically denying any discriminatory practices. ‘The Hundred was launched to expand cricket’s reach, grow the game, and ensure everyone—regardless of race, gender, religion, nationality, or any other factor—feels included,’ the statement read. It emphasized zero tolerance for bias, promising stringent action against any such behavior.
The board reiterated its commitment to selections based purely on cricketing merit, availability, and team requirements. This comes against the backdrop of no Pakistani players featuring in the IPL since 2008, a trend that has somewhat mirrored in The Hundred with only nine participants across its first five seasons.
Franchises like Manchester Super Giants (RP-SG Group), MI London (Reliance), Southern Brave (GMR), and Sunrisers Leeds (Sun Group) were at the center of speculation. Yet, ECB’s intervention underscores the tournament’s inclusive ethos, aiming to broaden its global appeal. As the draft approaches next month, all eyes are on whether this assurance translates into fair opportunities for overseas talents, potentially reshaping participation dynamics in English cricket’s premier T20 league.