Pakistan opener Sahibzada Farhan has addressed growing speculation around Pakistani cricketers potentially being ignored by Indian-owned teams in The Hundred, saying selection decisions remain beyond players’ control. Farhan is among 63 Pakistan players registered for the upcoming Hundred draft scheduled for March 11 and 12 and remains optimistic about earning a contract despite recent reports suggesting otherwise.
Recent media claims indicated that franchises with Indian ownership may avoid signing players from Pakistan which has raised concerns about equal opportunity in the England-based tournament. Four Hundred teams now feature Indian investment including MI London Southern Brave Manchester Super Giants and SunRisers Leeds following ownership changes that came into effect in October 2025.
Speaking to reporters ahead of Pakistan’s Super 8s clash against England at the T20 World Cup Farhan said he remains hopeful of being picked. He emphasised that players can only focus on performance and availability while final decisions rest with franchises. Farhan added that every cricketer aims to play in top global leagues and The Hundred is among the most attractive tournaments in world cricket.
The situation mirrors similar trends seen in other leagues. Since the IPL began in 2008 no Pakistan player has featured in the competition and Pakistan cricketers have also been absent from South Africa’s SA20 where all teams are Indian-owned. Additionally franchises with Indian backing in the ILT20 have not selected players from Pakistan.
Addressing the issue Farhan stated that players are ready to represent any team willing to select them and stressed there is no ill intent from the players’ side. Meanwhile the England and Wales Cricket Board has reportedly contacted all franchises reminding them of their responsibilities amid criticism that organisers must ensure inclusivity.
England white-ball captain Harry Brook has also weighed in on the debate noting that the absence of Pakistan players would be disappointing given their talent and the value they bring to the competition. The Hundred is scheduled to run from July 21 to August 16 across the United Kingdom.
