Ensuring The Hundred is inclusive, welcoming, and open to all continues to sit at the heart of the tournament’s vision. From the start of the tournament, the competition was always intended to not only provide fast-paced and entertaining cricket but also to provide a platform for people from all around the world to come and feel as though they belong. This remains as important today as it did on day one.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), along with the eight franchises that compete in The Hundred, has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the tournament reflects the diversity of modern Britain and the global cricket community. Cricket has not always been viewed as the most accessible sport, and The Hundred was introduced to bring the change and break barriers to open the game to people of all ages, backgrounds and cultures.
Within this wider commitment to inclusivity, there has been a noticeable buzz about franchises in The Hundred that have ties to owners with connections to the Indian Premier League who are rumored to have decided not to sign Pakistani players. This rumor is primarily due to the historical lack of Pakistani players in the IPL, which is due to political tensions between the two countries and not sporting policies. Nevertheless, The Hundred is an independent competition within the ECB’s governance structure, and there is no official policy that prevents players from Pakistan or any country from being selected.
Notwithstanding any links of ownership, the factors that come into play in franchise competitions are far more complex in terms of cricketing requirements, such as the composition of teams, the choice of overseas players, and their availability during international windows. The notion that the choice of selection is on the basis of nationality would run contrary to the principles on which this competition The Hundred is based and would thus call into question the credibility of The Hundred as a global competition.
Central to that commitment is a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination. The ECB has regulations in place to address any form of discriminatory behaviour, whether on or off the field. There is a clear understanding that the competition must represent fairness and respect for each and every person. Importantly, players cannot be excluded on the basis of nationality. Selection is based solely on cricketing skill and performance, availability and the specific needs of each team. Talent, effort and merit remain the sole factors responsible for selection.
All eight franchises share this responsibility. They understand that inclusivity is not just a statement, but an ongoing effort that is reflected in recruitment, engagement, fan experiences and player development pathways. The aim is to ensure that young cricketers, regardless of their ethnicity, gender, faith or social background, can see a future for themselves in the sport.
Outside of the playing field, The Hundred has also strived to ensure that the experience is welcoming to all. Friendly environments, equal treatment and behaviour towards everyone, all play a part in ensuring that the competition is one that everyone can relate to and feel as though they are a part of.
The Hundred ultimately has the aim of showcasing the best possible talent from around the world, as well as setting a standard for inclusivity within professional sport. By continuing to place such a high importance on equality, opportunity, and respect, the ECB and their respective teams are not only improving their competition but also paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for the sport of cricket.
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