Pakistani players in the Hundred: What’s the cricket controversy all about?
Al Jazeera
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A controversy has erupted over the exclusion of Pakistani cricketers from the Hundred cricket league in the UK, with reports stating that four teams partially owned by Indian businesses will not consider them during the player auction in March. This decision has sparked outrage in the cricketing world, with players and experts calling for fairness and impartiality. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), which oversees the tournament, has defended its commitment to inclusivity and selection based solely on performance, dismissing claims of discrimination.
The ECB emphasized that all eight teams are dedicated to ensuring the Hundred remains open and welcoming to everyone, regardless of nationality or background. Players like Sahibzada Farhan, a leading scorer in the ICC T20 World Cup, expressed optimism about being selected despite the reported bias, highlighting their readiness to compete at the highest level. Over 67 Pakistani players, including fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, have signed up for the upcoming auction, alongside prominent women cricketers like Pakistan’s captain Fatima Sana.
The exclusion row gained traction after a sports agent revealed an "unwritten rule" across T20 leagues with Indian investment to avoid selecting Pakistani players. This has raised concerns about potential bias in the league's structure, particularly since four of the eight teams have ownership links to the IPL. While the ECB maintains that nationality should not be a factor in player selection, critics argue that such policies could inadvertently marginalize cricketers from certain regions.
Historically, the Hundred has featured Pakistani players like Mohammed Amir and Imad Wasim, but this year’s reported exclusion has drawn sharp criticism. The controversy underscores broader debates about diversity and representation in sports, particularly in a global event like the Hundred. As cricket continues to grow worldwide, ensuring fairness and inclusivity remains crucial to fostering a truly international and welcoming environment for all players and fans.
This issue matters not only to cricket enthusiasts but also to those interested in global cultural and business dynamics. The debate highlights tensions between South Asian countries, particularly India and Pakistan, and their influence on sports. By addressing these concerns, the ECB can set a precedent for promoting unity and diversity in
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/25/2026