The Hundred: Pakistani Player Selection Controversy

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has responded to controversy surrounding the selection of Pakistani players for The Hundred tournament. Four of the eight teams in the competition are part-owned by businesses with Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, and reports suggested these teams would not consider Pakistani players during the upcoming draft.

In a statement, the ECB reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity, stating that all eight teams will base selection solely on cricketing performance, availability, and team needs. The board emphasized that players must not be excluded on grounds of nationality and that regulations exist to take 'robust action' against discrimination. Pakistani batter Sahibzada Farhan commented that player selection was ultimately up to the franchises but expressed hope of being picked after registering his interest in the league.