The Hundred has come into focus before its 2026 player auction. The auction will take place on March 11 and 12. Concerns were raised that Pakistan players might be ignored by some franchises connected to the Indian Premier League.
Reports claimed four IPL-linked teams – Manchester Super Giants, MI London, Southern Brave, and Sunrisers Leeds – could avoid signing Pakistan cricketers. The fear came because Pakistan players have not played in the IPL since 2009. Political tensions between India and Pakistan have often affected cricket relations.
To clear doubts, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and all eight franchises released statements. They confirmed that selection will depend only on merit, player availability, and team requirements.
The governing body stressed that nationality would not affect selection. It also said strong rules are in place to deal with discrimination.
“As the governing body responsible for running the tournament, the ECB is committed to ensuring there is no place for discrimination, and has regulations in place to take robust action to tackle any such conduct. Players must not be excluded on the grounds of their nationality. All eight teams commit to selection being based solely on cricketing performance, availability, and the needs of each team. This reflects the broader commitment of the ECB to make cricket the most inclusive sport, creating opportunities, breaking down barriers and ensuring that players from all backgrounds have a fair and equal pathway to the top of the game. We want The Hundred to feature the very best talent from across the world, and will continue working proactively to ensure that the competition is a benchmark for inclusivity,” read the statement.
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Franchises Support Inclusive Policy
MI London also supported the ECB’s message. The franchise confirmed it would welcome players from every country and follow the same selection rules.
“MI London is committed to ensuring The Hundred is a competition that it is inclusive, welcoming and open to all. Players must not be excluded on the grounds of their nationality. Alongside the other seven teams, we commit to selection being based solely on cricketing performance, availability, and the needs of each team,” read the statement.
A total of 67 Pakistan players have registered for the auction. This includes 63 men and four women. Big names include Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah.
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