Pakistan’s explosive top-order batter Sahibzada Farhan has expressed hope that he will get the opportunity to showcase his talent in England later this year in The Hundred tournament. Farhan is among a lot of players to have registered for the Hundred’s auction in March, placing himself in the £50,000 (US$67,500) base price bracket. Noticeably, Farhan has been a standout performer in T20Is, following his staggering performances at the Asia Cup last year. Even in the ongoing T20 World Cup, he has made his presence felt, leading the tournament’s run-scoring charts.
However, Farhan’s participation in the Hundred is uncertain following speculations about IPL-linked owners mulling adopting an unofficial “shadow-ban” approach toward Pakistani players, given that Pakistan cricketers do not participate in the IPL due to longstanding political tensions between the two nations. Four franchises in the competition now have IPL affiliations – MI London (Mumbai Indians), Manchester Super Giants (Lucknow Super Giants), Sunrisers Leeds (Sunrisers Hyderabad) and Southern Brave (Delhi Capitals).
"I have so much hope. Every player wants to play in the best leagues. The Hundred is one of the best leagues. So, let's hope for the best," Farhan said at the press conference ahead of Pakistan's Super 8 match against England.
When asked about concerns that IPL-affiliated franchises might overlook Pakistani players, Farhan stated that it's not in their hands.
"Look, it's not in our hands who picks us and who doesn't. Wherever we get an opportunity, and whoever is interested can pick us. We're ready to play that league," he added.