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Northern Superchargers, recently acquired by Sun Group CEO Kavya Maran, have made headlines by signing two Pakistan cricketers as replacements for 2025 edition of The Hundred. This move marks a significant development amidst ongoing scrutiny about the involvement of Pakistani players in the UK’s innovative 100-ball cricket competition, especially with four of the eight franchises now held by Indian-origin owners.
Two Pakistan players get contracts for The Hundred 2025
The signing was officially confirmed on August 5, quelling swirling rumours that Pakistani cricketers could be sidelined following changes in franchise ownership. Mohammad Amir, the left-arm pacer, joins as a full-season replacement for Australian seamer Ben Dwarshuis, who is unavailable due to national commitments. Spin all-rounder Imad Wasim, meanwhile, steps in as a short-term substitute for New Zealand’s Mitchell Santner and will be available for the Superchargers’ first two matches.
These inclusions are notable as Amir and Imad become the first Pakistani players to secure Hundred contracts for the season, after the March draft had seen no Pakistani men’s cricketers picked—a decision largely attributed to international scheduling clashes rather than deliberate exclusion.
Kavya Maran expands cricket footprint
This season is the first under full ownership of the Sun Group, led by Indian businesswoman Kavya Maran, who also owns Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL. The Group’s investment in the Northern Superchargers stood at over INR 1,000 crore, signaling a new era for the Leeds-based side.
Maran’s move surprised some, given political and sporting tensions between India and Pakistan, and the lack of Pakistani representation in Indian-run leagues like the SA20. However, Maran and other franchise owners have reiterated that cricketing merit—rather than off-field politics—will dictate player selections.
ECB chief’s reaction
Richard Gould, ECB’s chief executive, previously responded to the concerns regarding India-Pakistan conflict. “The identity of new investors will not affect the involvement of Pakistani players in The Hundred. We’re aware of restrictions in other regions, but that won’t be happening here,” he had said ahead of the Hundred draft.
Eyebrows were raised when no Pakistani men’s cricketers were selected in the March draft. The absence of players was attributed by some to scheduling conflicts with Pakistan’s white-ball tour of the West Indies and a tri-series in the UAE.
Now, Amir and Imad’s inclusion has been warmly welcomed by Pakistan cricket fans advocating for a more inclusive tournament. Amir, who previously played county cricket in the UK, brings pace and experience, while Imad is valued for his T20 prowess and versatility.
The Superchargers’ first match in The Hundred 2025 is set for August 7 against Welsh Fire.
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