ECB reminds franchises to pick on merit as IPL-linked teams face scrutiny over potential shadow-ban on Pakistan cricketers

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Pakistan batter Sahibzada Farhan has described The Hundred as “one of the best leagues in the world” and remains hopeful of securing a deal in the upcoming March auction, despite growing uncertainty around the participation of Pakistani players.

Farhan, who has entered the auction with a base price of £50,000 (US$67,500), has enjoyed a sharp rise in his T20 career over the past six months. Stellar performances at the Asia Cup and the ongoing T20 World Cup — where he is currently the leading run-scorer — have elevated his profile on the global stage. With more than 950 players registered, competition is intense, but Farhan’s recent form places him among the notable names in the draft pool.

However, questions linger over whether IPL-linked franchises in The Hundred will bid for Pakistani players. Four teams in the competition are backed by Indian Premier League ownership groups, and historically, Pakistani cricketers have not featured in the Indian Premier League since its inaugural season in 2008. Similar trends have been observed in other leagues with IPL investments, where Pakistani representation has remained limited.

Amid reports suggesting possible reluctance from certain franchises, the ECB has stepped in to reiterate that selections must be made strictly on merit. Vikram Banerjee, Managing Director of The Hundred, wrote to all eight teams reminding them that any evidence of discrimination would result in disciplinary action. The ECB has also pushed back against claims that IPL-owned teams will avoid bidding for Pakistani players, stating it has not been presented with proof of such directives.

Speaking ahead of Pakistan’s Super Eight clash against England, Farhan maintained a pragmatic outlook. He acknowledged that selection decisions are beyond a player’s control but stressed his readiness to compete wherever opportunities arise. “It’s not in our hands who picks us and who doesn’t. Wherever we get an opportunity and whoever is interested can pick us. We’re ready to play that league,” he said.

Only nine Pakistani players have featured in the first five seasons of The Hundred, with availability concerns — including clashes with international schedules and last-minute withdrawals — often cited as factors. This year’s tournament is also expected to overlap with Pakistan’s Test tour of the West Indies, adding another layer of complexity to potential signings.

Former England allrounder Moeen Ali has also weighed in on the issue, calling for clarity and fairness if Pakistani players continue to be overlooked. He described the situation as difficult for players, particularly younger ones whose careers could be impacted by speaking out, while emphasizing the need for an equitable solution.

Despite the surrounding uncertainty and geopolitical backdrop, Farhan remains focused on performance and opportunity. For him, The Hundred represents a premier platform in global franchise cricket, and he is hopeful that his recent achievements will be enough to earn him a place purely on cricketing merit.