In the latest Hundred Draft, a staggering 50 Pakistani players, including 45 men, went unsold. Among the women, Aliya Riaz, Fatima Sana, Yusra Amir, Iram Javed, and Jaweria Rauf failed to secure contracts, which was understandable due to the fierce competition and limited spots. However, the absence of high-profile men’s players, such as Naseem Shah, Imad Wasim, and Saim Ayub, left many surprised.
Naseem Shah, the highest-priced Pakistani player, had a reserve price of £120,000. Imad Wasim and Saim Ayub set their reserve prices at £78,500. Shadab Khan, Hasan Ali, and Mohammad Hasnain had a reserve price of £63,000, while Mohammad Abbas, Haider Ali, and Ammad Butt entered the draft without specifying any reserve price.
The presence of IPL franchises in the Hundred and the ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan have raised speculations that this could be a factor behind the players’ lack of interest from teams. Since 2008, Pakistani players have been banned from participating in the IPL due to strained political relations.
In addition to the Pakistani players, veteran cricketer James Anderson went unsold, much to the surprise of many. Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s left-arm wrist spinner, Noor Ahmad, and New Zealand all-rounder, Michael Bracewell, attracted the highest bids, both securing deals for £200,000. Ahmad will join the Manchester Originals, whose new owners, RP Sanjiv Goenka Group, also own his SA20 franchise, Durban Super Giants. Bracewell was signed by Southern Brave, last year’s runners-up. David Warner also secured a contract with London Spirit.