In a development that attracted global attention, fourteen Pakistan men’s cricketers are included in this year’s long list of 247 players A hundredamid speculation that they may be overlooked due to geopolitical tensions.
Reports indicate that four Indian franchises – MI London, Sunrisers Leeds, Manchester Super Giants and Southern Brave – Pakistan can avoid selecting players. However, the longlist announcement somehow contradicted these claims, with Pakistan boasting the highest number of overseas representatives in the top 50 ‘hero’ players – more than one. South Africa.
Adding another layer of intrigue, this year’s tournament will coincide with the Pakistan Test series, potentially creating selection and availability issues for participating players.
Haris Rauf among the international names
Leadership in download is speed accelerator Haris Raufincluded in the prestigious “Marquee Players International” category. Rauf carries a maximum reserve price of £100,000, placing him alongside world cricket’s biggest T20 stars.
There is also a marquee international list Aiden Markram, David Miller, Daryl Mitchell and Sunil Narine. Rauf’s inclusion underscores his growing reputation as a high-impact T20 bowler.
Players had to submit themselves to the auction, after which eight franchises submitted 75-100 nominations each. The final longlist was then selected from those submissions.
Shaheen Afridi, Shadab Khan lead the first-class category
Pakistani pacer among the elite “hero” categories Shaheen Shah Afridithoroughly Shadab Khan and spinner Osman Tariq Placed in Tier One – a reflection of their T20 pedigree and international experience.
The second level includes dynamic comprehensive Saim Ayub and mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed. Interestingly, Ayub has chosen the highest reserve price bracket despite being listed in the second tier, indicating confidence in its market value.
The top 30 names on the men’s long list also include some of England’s top stars Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root and Adil Rashidalong with international T20 experts like Quinton de Kock and Find Allen.
The men’s auction is scheduled to take place on March 12 in Piccadilly, London, where franchises will strategically consolidate their squads. With political tensions, scheduling clashes and high reserve prices, this year’s auction promises drama even before the ball is kicked.
Also READ: Former Pakistan cricketers in green react after Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 exit
Men’s top 100 list – top 30 players
- Local attic: Jonny Bairstow, Adil Rashid, James Vince, Jordan Cox, Joe Root
- Marquee International: Aiden Markram, David Miller, Sunil Narine, Haris Rauf, Daryl Mitchell
- Grade 1 pastries: Finn Allen, Quinton De Kock, Ryan Rickelton, Tim Seifert, Zach Crawley
- 1st class fast bowler: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood, Sonny Baker, Saqib Mahmood
- 1st class comprehensive: Tom Curran, Shadab Khan, Azmatullah Omarzai, David Willey, Gus Atkinson
- 1st grade rotary bowlers: Akeal Hosein, AM Ghazanfar, Rishad Hossain, Usman Tariq, Jafer Chohan
Also READ: ‘Players’ group will speak’: Moeen Ali warns against Pakistan’s protest from The Hundred 2026
