The Hundred Auction: IPL-Linked Franchises Freeze Out Pakistan Players?

The build-up to The Hundred auction was supposed to be routine. Squads reshuffled. Overseas slots debated. Agents on the phone. Instead, it has turned into a quiet storm around Pakistan players in The Hundred.

English media reported that franchises partially owned by Indian Premier League investors are unlikely to consider Pakistan cricketers at next month’s draft. A senior ECB official reportedly indicated that interest would remain confined to teams without IPL-linked ownership.

IPL Influence in Focus

Last year, the ECB sold stakes in four teams to private investors, raising £500 million. Among them were Manchester Super Giants, MI London, Southern Brave, and Sunrisers Leeds, all tied to IPL ownership groups.

Since then, whispers have grown louder. One agent described it as an “unwritten rule” across leagues with IPL backing. The pattern is hard to ignore. Pakistan players have not featured in the IPL since 2008. Their presence in SA20, ILT20, and Major League Cricket has also been minimal.

Now, attention shifts back to The Hundred auction and whether Pakistan players in The Hundred will feel the squeeze.

ECB’s Earlier Assurances

That is where the contradiction bites.

ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould had publicly stated that no such restrictions would apply in England. He insisted inclusivity would remain intact. Those words are now being revisited.

To be fair, Pakistan cricketers were regular picks in previous editions. Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim both featured last season. It was competitive, lively cricket. There were no visible barriers. And yet, here we are.

If the reports hold, the landscape changes. The dressing room mix could look different. Agents and players are watching the situation closely. The auction list will be released soon. That one moment could tell the real story.