Pakistan’s cricketers may face fresh uncertainty in global franchise leagues. Concerns are rising in England over their chances in The Hundred.

Several teams in The Hundred now have Indian ownership. This has triggered speculation that Pakistani players might not be picked. There is no official ban. But selection preferences could affect their chances.

Pakistani players have already been out of the IPL since 2009. A similar pattern could emerge in The Hundred. Around 63 Pakistani cricketers have registered for the draft. Big names like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi are in the list.

Four of the eight teams in the league have Indian stakeholders. These include Manchester Super Giants, MI London, Southern Brave and Sunrisers Leeds. Their ownership links have increased the debate around player selection.

Reports in England say no formal rule exists against Pakistan players. ECB officials have clarified that it is only a possibility, not a policy. They also pointed to South Africa’s SA20 league, where Indian-owned teams do not feature Pakistani players.

The England and Wales Cricket Board has taken a neutral stance. It has said the league is open to players from all countries. Officials stressed that inclusivity remains the official position.

Player bodies have raised concerns about equal opportunity. They believe every cricketer should get fair access to leagues worldwide. However, franchises still have the final say on squad selection.

More than 1,000 players from 18 countries have entered the draft. Over 50 of them are from Pakistan. The final team picks will decide whether these concerns turn into reality.