The approach to the 2026 season of The Hundred is changing, with reports indicating that some franchises may not consider Pakistani players during the upcoming auction. This shift follows significant ownership changes in England’s leading 100-ball league, raising concerns that geopolitical factors might affect team selections.
Although The Hundred has marketed itself as a global tournament featuring International talent, the increasing involvement of Indian Premier League (IPL) investors seems to be altering the behind-the-scenes workings.
IPL influence expands into The Hundred
2026 will be a crucial year for The Hundred after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) sold stakes in all eight franchises to private investors. This decision aims to attract new capital, enhance commercial value, and strengthen ties with global cricket markets.
However, four franchises are reportedly associated—either fully or partially—with IPL team owners. The IPL has historically not included Pakistani players due to ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan. Although this has never been an official rule, the trend of excluding Pakistani cricketers from the IPL since 2008 has become a common understanding. Now, it seems this unwritten guideline is affecting leagues outside India as well.
Reason why some teams won’t consider Pakistani players
Player agents preparing for the 2026 auction suggest that franchises with IPL ties have indicated they are ‘not considering’ Pakistani players. There has been no formal announcement regarding this, but the privately communicated message has raised concerns in the cricket community.
Similar trends have been observed in other T20 leagues supported by IPL owners, such as South Africa’s SA20 and the UAE’s ILT20. The Hundred might be the next league to reflect this shift.
The ECB claims it remains committed to inclusivity and anti-discrimination policies. Officially, the pool of players remains open, but opportunities for Pakistani cricketers may be narrowing.
Franchises reportedly aligning with IPL stance
The four franchises linked to IPL ownership are:
- MI London (previously London Spirit) – Connected to the Mumbai Indians
- Manchester Super Giants (previously Manchester Originals) – Connected to Lucknow Super Giants
- Southern Brave – Reportedly with partial backing from Mumbai Indians
- Sunrisers Leeds (previously Northern Superchargers) – Connected to Sunrisers Hyderabad
The Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad are prominent franchises in the IPL, while LSG has quickly gained a strong foothold. If these reports are accurate, this could significantly reduce prospects for Pakistani cricketers in the 2026 auction.
Remaining teams likely to pick Pakistani talent
Many Pakistani players have excelled in The Hundred, showcasing their skills and winning over audiences. Fast bowlers like Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf have captivated fans with their speed, while all-rounder Shadab Khan has shown his worth in tense situations. If half the league excludes them, it would not only affect team strategies but also the tournament’s global appeal. If four franchises opt out of bidding for Pakistani players, the remaining teams—Birmingham Phoenix, Oval Invincibles, Trent Rockets, and possibly others depending on ownership arrangements—would become the main options for these athletes.
