In a recent development, Australian cricketers Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Marsh have withdrawn their participation from the upcoming season of The Hundred.
The duo was set to represent the London Spirits in the highly anticipated tournament as they had signed contracts worth £125,000 (US$160,000) with the English club. Their absence poses a challenge for the Spirits, but the management has begun the search for suitable replacements, primarily focusing on foreign players. They are expected to announce the replacements for Maxwell and Marsh in the coming days.
The decision for Maxwell and Marsh to withdraw from The Hundred was influenced by Cricket Australia’s desire to ensure their fitness and freshness for upcoming international tournaments. Both players have been integral to the Australian cricket setup and will be key assets for CA in the 50-over World Cup in India later this year. Additionally, they are being prioritized for the T20 World Cup, set to take place in the West Indies and the United States next year.
The Hundred 2023 is scheduled to take place in August following the conclusion of the ongoing Ashes series between England and Australia. The withdrawal of Maxwell and Marsh is a setback for the tournament, which has faced challenges in attracting foreign players.
In addition to Maxwell and Marsh, other players have also opted out of The Hundred for various reasons. Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga withdrew from the tournament due to clashes with the dates of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2023. Furthermore, New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell has been ruled out of England’s 100-ball cricket tournament due to injury.
The Hundred organizers will undoubtedly be disappointed by these withdrawals, as they strive to build momentum and attract international talent to the tournament. However, they remain committed to delivering an exciting cricketing spectacle and are likely to explore alternative options to fill the gaps left by these notable omissions.
