Don't miss out on Pakistan's cricketing talent! England's white-ball captain, Harry Brook, is sounding the alarm, urging teams in this year's Hundred to give Pakistan players a fair chance. It's been reported that the tournament's four Indian-owned franchises might not be considering them, a move Brook believes would be a real shame.
Brook, who is the highest-paid player in The Hundred and contracted to Sunrisers Leeds (owned by the Sun Group, who also own the IPL team Sunrisers Hyderabad), has a unique perspective. He acknowledges that team selection isn't really anyone else's business, but he passionately argues for the inclusion of Pakistan's cricketers. "Pakistan have been a great cricket nation for many years," he stated. With around 50 or 60 Pakistan players available in the auction for the men's tournament on March 12th, and four in the women's auction the day before, Brook feels it would be a disservice not to see them compete. "There’s some amazing cricketers and they bring some great crowds as well," he added, emphasizing how their presence would elevate the tournament.
But here's where it gets a bit more personal for Brook. While he's a star player, he recently revealed that he won't be captaining his side, Sunrisers, this summer, a decision he made himself. "I have already said I am not going to captain this year," he explained. "I am staying away from that stuff and will let the head coach and whoever is in charge control that." This allows him to fully focus on his England commitments, which are quite demanding. His first game for Sunrisers is on July 21st, just two days after he's due to captain England in an ODI against India at Lord's. The Hundred final is on August 16th, a mere three days before England's Test series against Pakistan kicks off at Headingley, Sunrisers' home ground.
And this is the part most people miss: Brook's immediate focus is on England's T20 World Cup campaign. They are preparing for their Super 8s match against Sri Lanka, and England is keeping their cards close to their chest, not naming their team until the toss. Brook hinted at potential changes, stating, "there’s going to be some changes to the side so we’re not too predictable." This strategic ambiguity is certainly keeping fans on their toes!
Now, let's talk about a sticky situation. England is awaiting news on whether Jacob Bethell will be able to bowl. He injured his finger during a match against the West Indies and it's still in protective strapping. The rules around strapping are quite strict, and Bethell's decent cut means he needs it. "If there’s some way we can get around that then we’d like to bowl him," Brook mentioned. The tournament's playing conditions clearly state that "protection for the hand or fingers may be worn only with the consent of the umpires." Bethell has continued to play, but he hasn't bowled since England's warm-up game against Sri Lanka on February 3rd.
So, what do you think? Should The Hundred actively seek to include Pakistan's talented players, or is it purely a business decision for the franchises? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
