Despite the global popularity of The Hundred, Indian male cricketers have not participated in the tournament since its inception. This is primarily due to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) policy that restricts contracted players from participating in overseas franchise leagues, except for the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Why Indian Players Are Currently Absent from The Hundred
However, India women players like Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur have successfully featured in both The Hundred and other T20 leagues, reflecting the growing international acceptance of Indian cricketing talent.
Lancashire CEO’s Proposal: Aligning Interests with the BCCI
In a recent report, Lancashire CEO Daniel Gidney suggested a potential breakthrough, inviting the BCCI as a minority stakeholder in The Hundred. This move, according to Gidney, could align commercial and cricketing interests and pave the way for Indian men’s participation in the competition.
“If the BCCI were to own part of The Hundred, it would change everything,” Gidney noted. “It’s about aligning interests.”
RPSG Group Buys 70% Stake in Manchester Originals
Adding weight to this theory, Indian business giant RPSG Group, which also owns Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, recently acquired a 70% stake in The Hundred’s Manchester Originals franchise. This deal symbolizes a growing trend of Indian investment in English cricket, potentially bridging the gap between IPL and The Hundred.
Exhibition Matches to Follow? A Glimpse into the Future
Gidney also revealed the ambition to host exhibition matches between IPL teams and English franchises. “Imagine Delhi Capitals vs Lucknow Super Giants at Old Trafford,” he said, noting the potential to attract Indian fans living in the UK and boost the sport’s popularity.
What This Means for Indian Cricket
This could mark the start of a new era in international franchise cricket. IPL stars like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, or Shubman Gill may one day appear in The Hundred, offering fans a new spectacle and expanding their global reach.
As the BCCI explores strategic partnerships, fans and franchises a like await the outcome that could revolutionize player participation across continents.
