Last Updated on March 30, 2026 by Yash Saini
As the 2026 edition of the Hundred arrives, there’s growing talk that various teams might skip signing players from Pakistan, even though more than 50 Pakistani cricketers have registered for the auction. In addition, the player auction for the hundred is set for March 11-12, 2026, in London. On the other hand, the tournament is scheduled from July 21 to August 16, 2026. More than 1000 players from around 18 countries have reportedly registered for the 2026 auction. In leagues such as the PSL, BBL, and CPL, Pakistani cricketers are highly valued for their skills, mainly in bowling and all-around performance. That is why the possibility of them being ignored in the Hundred has surprised various cricket fans.
Also Read: IPL Falls Behind The Hundred and SA20 in the World Cricketers’ Association Rankings: WCA Report
Moreover, various Pakistani stars such as Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, and others added their names, hoping to be selected by one of the eight franchises. Reports suggest that four teams are connected to IPL owners, including sides such as MI London, Manchester Super Giants, Southern Brave, and Sunrisers, who are likely to avoid bidding on Pakistan players. The reason is not official yet: In the IPL, Pakistani players have not been signed for several years because of political tensions between India and Pakistan. All these owners seem to carry the same approach into the Hundred.
However, former England captain Michael Vaughan has said that the hundred must be open for players from all countries without bias, and teams shouldn’t avoid good players just because of their nationality. Officials from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said the Hundred welcomes players from anywhere and that the long list of registered players, including players from Pakistan, shows their intent to be inclusive. But when the auction happens, we will see whether the teams truly treat all players equally.
Also Read: India’s Predicted Playing 11 vs South Africa, Can the Men in Blue Stay Unbeaten in the Super 8 Clash?
If Pakistan cricketers are ignored again, it can show that politics and past tension still impact big decisions in big franchise cricket leagues, even when those leagues say they want to be fair and global. In addition, if teams sign them, it may help enhance cricketing relations and send a positive global message.
