BCCI’s Stance on Indian Players Remains Unchanged, Says ECB Chief
February 15, 2025: The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has secured a massive GBP 975 million (~₹10,600 crore) investment in its flagship franchise tournament, The Hundred, with significant contributions from IPL team owners. Four prominent IPL franchises have collectively invested nearly GBP 300 million (~₹3,257 crore) in the competition, marking a major shift in global franchise cricket.
Also Read: Champions Trophy: Siraj’s Omission, Jaiswal’s Snub & A Spin-Heavy Gamble-Explained
IPL Teams Enter The Hundred
The IPL team owners who have secured stakes in The Hundred franchises include:
✔ Mumbai Indians (Reliance Industries) – Oval Invincibles
✔ Delhi Capitals (GMR Group) – Southern Brave
✔ Lucknow Super Giants (RPSG) – Manchester Originals
✔ Sunrisers Hyderabad (Sun TV Network) – Northern Superchargers
This significant investment underscores IPL franchises’ growing influence in global cricket, as they now have ownership in multiple T20 leagues, including the SA20 (South Africa), MLC (USA), and ILT20 (UAE).
Also Read: India’s Road to ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Strengths, Weaknesses & Key Challenges
Pakistan Players Allowed, Indian Players Unlikely
A major question that arose following the IPL teams’ investment was whether Pakistan players would be permitted to play in franchises owned by IPL teams. Unlike the SA20, where Pakistani cricketers were not selected due to IPL ownership ties, ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould has assured that Pakistan players will be included in The Hundred.
Also Read: Champions Trophy: “Stop Calling Me King”: Babar Azam’s Humble Plea To Media
“We’re aware of that in other regions, but that won’t be happening here,” said Gould, confirming that Pakistan players will be considered for selection.
On the other hand, when asked about the participation of Indian players, Gould clarified that it remains highly unlikely, as the BCCI has consistently prohibited Indian cricketers from participating in overseas franchise leagues.
“The BCCI’s position has been very clear. We’d love to see Indian players play in England, but it is not something we have predetermined in this process,” he added.
Impact on Global Cricket & Broadcast Markets
With major IPL teams investing in The Hundred, broadcast rights in India are expected to see a surge in value. The ECB is confident that these partnerships will strengthen their global TV audience and commercial value, making The Hundred a more financially viable tournament.
While the participation of Indian cricketers remains uncertain, this move further solidifies IPL franchises’ dominance in the global cricketing landscape.
Tags:
TheHundred, IPL, CricketInvestments, EnglandCricket, PakistanCricket, IndianCricketers, T20Leagues, BCCI, ECB,