Experienced Pakistani pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi is one of five overseas players to withdraw from The Hundred auction at short notice, just hours before bidding is set to begin.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that Afridi had pulled out alongside Quinton de Kock, Sunil Narine, AM Ghazanfar, and Peter Siddle ahead of the auction.
The ECB declined to provide individual reasons for the withdrawals, though scheduling clashes with the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and international commitments are understood to have influenced the decisions.
Afridi previously represented Welsh Fire in 2023, taking six wickets, and had been expected to feature in the Tier 1 Fast Bowlers category before withdrawing at the last minute.
Last week, 14 Pakistan cricketers out of 63 registered for The Hundred auction were shortlisted, featuring predominantly seamers and all‑rounders.
Afridi, who has now withdrawn, and Haris Rauf anchor the contingent, supported by seamers such as Zaman Khan, Naseem Shah, Usama Mir, Salman Mirza, and others in the bowling-heavy group.
All‑rounder Shadab Khan and Imad Wasim provide variety, reflecting the continued demand of the teams for versatile players capable of influencing matches with both batting and bowling contributions.
Reports emerged last month suggesting franchises owned by Indian Premier League groups were unlikely to pursue Pakistan cricketers in the draft, a practice described as a “shadow ban” by some media.
Against that backdrop the ECB issued a directive to all eight Hundred franchises reminding them that players “must not be excluded on grounds of nationality” in selection decisions.
The board warned teams that selection should be based solely on cricket performance, availability, and team needs, underscoring its commitment to a tournament that is inclusive and open to all.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan publicly urged the ECB to “act fast” over allegations that Indian‑linked owners may overlook Pakistan stars, stressing that sport should not tolerate bias of any kind.
England white‑ball skipper Harry Brook also weighed in, calling it “a shame” if Pakistan’s premier players were shut out of the upcoming The Hundred,
