The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has written to the eight Hundred franchises to remind them of their responsibilities regarding discrimination.
Concerns arose after reports suggested that Pakistan players are not being considered by the four Indian-owned teams for next month’s Hundred auction. This follows a pattern seen in other IPL-owned franchises, due to ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan.
ECB chief executive Richard Gould said last year that “players from all nations should be eligible for selection for all teams” and emphasized that clear anti-discrimination policies are in place.
While the ECB retains overall control of the Hundred, it cannot force franchises to pick specific players. Any allegations of discrimination would need to be supported by evidence. The ECB can refer a franchise to the cricket regulator for investigation and can issue its own penalties if required.
In the last edition before new investors took control, Pakistan internationals Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim featured in the tournament. This year, more than 60 Pakistan players are among the 964 registered for the auction, which will take place on 11 and 12 March.
Franchises will submit a list of players of interest this week, narrowing the field to a longlist of fewer than 200 players who will be eligible for the auction.
