Cricket controversy surrounds Pakistani players participation in The Hundred tournament

Eight teams participating in the Hundred franchise cricket league in the United Kingdom have partial ownership by businesses that also own franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL). According to reports, Pakistani cricketers may not be considered for selection by these four teams during an auction scheduled for March. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has stated its commitment to ensuring the league remains inclusive and open to all players.

The ECB has regulations in place to prevent discrimination, including excluding players based on their nationality. However, some media reports suggest that Pakistani cricketers may be at a disadvantage due to the ownership structure of the teams. A sports agent was reportedly informed by an official that Pakistani players would not be considered by teams linked to the IPL.

Pakistani batter Sahibzada Farhan has expressed hope of being selected for the league, stating that player selection is ultimately up to the franchises. Other Pakistani cricketers, including fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, have also registered their interest in the auction. The women’s auction will take place on March 11, while the men’s auction will be held a day later.

The ECB has sold stakes in the league to investors from India and the United States, generating hundreds of millions of pounds for the financially stricken domestic game in England. The ownership structure has raised concerns about potential biases in player selection.

Source: Al Jazeera