The Hundred’s forthcoming auction has sparked debate following reports in British media that four Indian-owned franchises could avoid signing Pakistani cricketers. Pakistan opener Sahibzada Farhan on Tuesday distanced himself from the speculation, stating that players have no control over franchise decisions and remain prepared to play if given the opportunity.
Speaking ahead of Pakistan’s T20 World Cup Super Eight clash against England, Farhan said selection calls rest entirely with team management. “See, it’s not in our hands to decide who will pick us or not. That is not in our hands. Wherever we get a chance, whoever is interested can pick us and we are ready to play in that league,” he said.
When asked about reports suggesting Pakistani players could be overlooked by teams with links to the Indian Premier League, Farhan declined to engage with the premise. “And we are not interested to play with the people – the way you have spoken,” he added.
The reports concerned four Hundred franchises, namely Manchester Super Giants, MI London, Southern Brave and Sunrisers Leeds, all owned by Indian business groups. While none of the franchises has issued an official statement, the speculation has renewed focus on the broader absence of Pakistani players in IPL-owned competitions.
No Pakistani cricketer has featured in the IPL since the inaugural 2008 season. The pattern has continued in other IPL-linked tournaments such as the SA20 and the ILT20, where franchises are also controlled by IPL owners.
England and Wales Cricket Board chief executive Richard Gould had previously said he expected “players from all nations to be selected for all teams” in The Hundred and emphasised that “clear anti-discrimination policies” were in place.
Pakistani players have featured in earlier editions of the competition. Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim played last season, while Shaheen Afridi, Shadab Khan and Haris Rauf were involved in previous campaigns.
Tournament organisers have confirmed that 67 male and female cricketers from Pakistan, including most members of the men’s T20 World Cup squad, have registered for this year’s auction.
England captain Harry Brook said last week that it would be unfortunate if Pakistani players were absent from the tournament. “There’s some amazing cricketers and they bring some great crowds as well. So it would be a shame to not see some of the Pakistan players in there and make the tournament and competition even better,” Brook had said.
The upcoming season of The Hundred is scheduled from July 21 to August 16, with the players’ auction set to take place in March.
