Pallekele, Feb 24 : Pakistan opener Sahibzada Farhan chose a measured response on Monday amid growing speculation that several Indian owned franchises could overlook Pakistani cricketers in the upcoming The Hundred auction.
Reports in British media suggest that Manchester Super Giants (RPSG Group), MI London (Reliance), Southern Brave (GMR) and Sunrisers Leeds (Sun Group) all linked to Indian Premier League ownership groups may refrain from bidding for Pakistan players.
Addressing the issue ahead of Pakistan’s T20 World Cup Super Eight clash against England, Farhan said team selections in franchise leagues are not in the hands of players.
“It’s not for us to decide who picks us. Whoever is interested can select us — we are ready to compete wherever we get an opportunity,” he said.
When asked about the broader pattern of Pakistan players missing out in leagues with strong IPL associations, Farhan maintained that cricketers remain hopeful of opportunities across competitions worldwide.
“Every professional wants to participate in top leagues. The Hundred is among the best, so we stay optimistic,” he added.
A total of 67 Pakistani men’s and women’s cricketers — including most members of the current T20 World Cup squad have entered the draft for the England-based tournament. Notable names such as Mohammad Amir, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan and Haris Rauf have previously featured in the competition.
Pakistan players have not appeared in the IPL since 2008. Similarly, none have been signed in South Africa’s SA20 since its launch in 2023, while franchises linked to IPL ownership in the UAE’s ILT20 have also refrained from contracting Pakistani cricketers.
England captain Harry Brook recently expressed disappointment at the possibility of Pakistan stars missing the event, calling them valuable additions who enhance both quality and crowd appeal.
The Hundred’s next edition is scheduled from July 21 to August 16, with the player auction set for March 11 and 12.