Pakistani cricket faces another hurdle as Indian investors show no interest in taking on Pakistani players during next month’s Hundred tournament. The situation underscores how geopolitical tensions can extend beyond the battlefield into the world of cricket.
Reports from England indicate that despite Pakistan’s strong showing at this year’s T20 World Cup, including nearly its entire men’s squad and women, Indian-owned franchises in the English Hundred competition will not be choosing any Pakistani players for their teams. This decision has been made out of fear of potential backlash within India due to recent frictions between the two countries.
The Hundred is a top-tier tournament where four Indian-backed franchises—Manchester Super Giants, Mumbai Indians London, Southern Brave, and Sunrisers Leeds—are vying for supremacy. Like Pakistan’s PSL (Pakistan Super League) or India’s IPL (Indian Premier League), the Hundred mirrors similar structures with ownership ties to major cricket leagues.
The decision not to sign Pakistani players aligns with previous instances of Indian teams avoiding hiring from South Africa’s SA20, where all six franchises are controlled by groups tied to the IPL. Similarly, Indian-owned franchises in the UAE’s ILT20 have also steered clear of signing Pakistan players during their respective tournaments.
Despite entering the auction for a total of 63 Pakistani cricketers and four women’s players, there is no guarantee that these talents will find themselves on an Indian team’s roster. The ECB (England Cricket Board) has voiced its commitment to non-discrimination policies but must abide by them. Pakistan refused to face India in this year’s World Cup due to concerns over the global event’s welfare.
As the Hundred tournament approaches, Pakistani cricket faces another chapter of international intrigue. This decision raises questions about whether India will reciprocate and avoid discriminating against its counterpart. The stakes are high as both teams prepare for potential clashes at major tournaments like the upcoming T20 World Cup, showcasing how even minor decisions in local leagues can have far-reaching implications on global cricket diplomacy.
Published in Dawn, February 22nd, 2026