A total of five Pakistan players had registered for the women’s draft and 45 for the men’s draft. However, what stood out during the recently held The Hundred draft was that no Pakistan players were picked, despite overseas slots being available in various teams.
So, what could be the possible reason behind Pakistan players’ exclusion from The Hundred 2025? While there are many speculations, let’s take a look at all the possible reasons behind no Pakistan players being selected in The Hundred 2025 draft.
Clash with international series likely reason for no Pakistan players in The Hundred
The possible reason could be the schedule conflict for Pakistan, as they are set to play three ODIs and three T20Is in the West Indies from late July to mid-August. After that, they will also play a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. Since The Hundred is set to start on August 5, it will surely clash with Pakistan’s schedule. Also, Pakistan is reportedly in talks with Bangladesh to arrange a white-ball series in July-August.
Did IPL backed franchises influence Pakistan players’ exclusion from The Hundred?
It’s no secret that The Hundred tournament underwent a structural shift as the ECB opened up franchises to outside investment. All eight teams have received investments, with four of them being owned by IPL franchises.
The RPSG Group, which owns Lucknow Super Giants, holds a stake in Manchester Originals, while Sun TV Network Limited, the owners of Sunrisers Hyderabad, have invested in Northern Superchargers. Reliance Industries Limited, the parent company of Mumbai Indians, has secured ownership in Oval Invincibles, and GMR Group, co-owners of Delhi Capitals, has a stake in Southern Brave through Hampshire.
It is well known that Pakistan players do not participate in the IPL, as they have been barred from the league since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. When IPL-backed ownership entered The Hundred, speculation grew about a possible restriction on Pakistan players. However, England and Wales Cricket Board chief executive Richard Gould clarified that there was no chance of such a scenario, dismissing concerns of a ‘soft ban.’
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