The ECB Hundred inclusivity statement has reaffirmed that players must not be excluded on the basis of nationality. The announcement followed media reports suggesting that some Indian-owned franchises might avoid signing Pakistan cricketers.
On Tuesday, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and all eight Hundred teams released a joint statement. They emphasised that player selection must depend solely on cricketing performance, availability, and team requirements.
Reports had indicated that certain franchises could decline to consider Pakistan players due to ongoing India-Pakistan tensions.
In the ECB Hundred inclusivity statement, officials stressed that The Hundred was designed to attract new audiences and grow the sport. They said cricket should remain open and inclusive.
“Players must not be excluded on the grounds of their nationality,” the statement read.
The player auction is scheduled for March 11–12 in London. According to media reports, 67 Pakistan cricketers have registered, including fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah.
Pakistan players have not featured in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since 2009. However, The Hundred operates independently under ECB regulations.
The competition, which uses a 100-ball format, will run from July 21 to August 16. Recently, the tournament opened to private investment, with four franchises acquired by IPL owners.
The clarification aims to ensure transparency and maintain the tournament’s commitment to fairness ahead of the upcoming auction.
