The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have officially ignited their engine for the IPL 2026 season, and as expected, the ‘Thala’ factor is already stealing the spotlight. The franchise kicked off its pre-season training camp at its high-performance center in Chennai, welcoming back former captain MS Dhoni and current skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad. After a disappointing 2025 campaign where the five-time champions finished at the bottom of the table, the energy in the camp suggests a renewed sense of purpose—and a healthy dose of classic Dhoni mischief.

Fans across the country are bracing for another season of ‘Thala Magic,’ especially following a season where Gaikwad’s untimely injury forced Dhoni back into the captaincy hot seat. This year, the focus is on a seamless transition and redemption, but if the first day of practice is any indication, the 44-year-old legend is more interested in keeping the mood light and the vibes high.

CSK nets turn entertaining as MS Dhoni grooves while signaling a wide

While net sessions are typically a grind of technical drills, Dhoni turned a routine delivery into a social media sensation. During a stint against a local net bowler, a spinner tossed one well wide of the crease. Rather than simply letting it pass, Dhoni broke into a hilarious, impromptu dance move while extending his arms to signal a wide. The theatrical gesture immediately sent his teammates and the support staff into fits of laughter.

In a video shared by the CSK social media handles, young recruits like Ayush Mhatre and veteran domestic performers were seen grinning behind the nets, clearly enjoying the lighthearted side of the master finisher. Even at 44, Dhoni’s ability to blend intense preparation with viral entertainment remains unmatched. Observers noted that the legendary keeper-batter looked lean and sharp, reportedly using a lighter 1.23 kg bat this season to enhance his bat speed, a technical tweak that suggests he is taking his uncapped player role very seriously.

Here’s the video:

Yes, Thala! That’s a wide! 🥰
Cuteness overloaded! 💛#WhistlePodu pic.twitter.com/liUhdOsyiy

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 2, 2026

Also WATCH: Axar Patel playfully mocks Sanju Samson after his match-winning heroics against West Indies in T20 World Cup 2026

CSK’s new faces and power-packed reinforcements for IPL 2026

The 2026 squad reflects a massive overhaul aimed at fixing the cracks from last year. CSK made waves at the auction by securing record-breaking deals for uncapped stars Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma, both joining the yellow army for a staggering ₹14.20 crore each. The current camp features a strong domestic contingent, including Sarfaraz Khan, Rahul Chahar, Mukesh Choudhary, and Urvil Patel, all of whom were seen training under the watchful eyes of assistant coaches Sridharan Sriram and Rajiv Kumar.

While the ‘Yellow Army’ is currently operating at partial strength, the lineup is set to become even more formidable soon. Star all-rounder Shivam Dube and the high-profile trade acquisition Sanju Samson are currently tied up with international duties as the T20 World Cup 2026 reaches its climax. They are expected to join the squad after the tournament final on March 8.

With the IPL 2026 season reportedly set to begin on March 28, Chennai is desperate to erase the memories of 2025. By combining the youthful exuberance of Sarfaraz and Mhatre with the tactical wisdom of Dhoni and Gaikwad, the Super Kings are positioning themselves as a powerhouse once again.

Also READ: 3 reasons why MS Dhoni won’t play every match of IPL 2026

The T20 World Cup 2026 has reached its knockout stage, with the top four teams confirmed after a dramatic Super 8 phase. Defending champions and co-hosts India lead the charge alongside an unbeaten South Africa, while England and New Zealand round out the high-powered semifinal lineup. The Proteas will take on the Black Caps in the first semifinal, while the Men in Blue will face the English side in the second semifinal.

After weeks of electrifying cricket, nail-biting finishes, and standout individual performances, the focus now shifts to two matches that promise intensity, tactical battles, and immense pressure. With a place in the grand finale at stake, every detail matters — and that includes the officials entrusted with maintaining fairness on the biggest stage.

ICC announces match officials for T20 World Cup 2026 semi-finals

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially named the match officials for both semi-finals, appointing some of the most experienced names in the global officiating panel.

Semi-Final 1: South Africa vs New Zealand

• Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
• Date: Wednesday, 4 March 2026

Match officials for semi-final 1

• On-field Umpires: Richard Illingworth & Alex Wharf
• Third Umpire: Nitin Menon
• Fourth Umpire: Rod Tucker
• Match Referee: Javagal Srinath

South Africa enter the clash unbeaten and brimming with confidence, while New Zealand’s reputation as perennial knockout specialists adds a fascinating edge. With both sides known for their discipline and tactical sharpness, the officials will have a pivotal role in ensuring a smooth, high-intensity battle.

Semi-Final 2: India vs England

• Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
• Date: Thursday, 5 March 2026

Match officials for semi-final 2

• On-field Umpires: Chris Gaffaney & Allahuddien Paleker
• Third Umpire: Adrian Holdstock
• Fourth Umpire: Paul Reiffel
• Match Referee: Andy Pycroft

Given the history and rivalry between India and England in white-ball cricket, the spotlight will be intense. The Wankhede crowd is expected to generate an electric atmosphere, and the officials will need sharp judgment and calm authority to manage high-pressure moments.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 Semifinals: Date, Match Time, Venue, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

Expectations high from two high-profile contests

Both semi-finals promise contrasting yet equally gripping narratives. South Africa’s unbeaten run meets New Zealand’s calm, calculated approach in Kolkata. Meanwhile, India’s explosive batting depth faces England’s fearless brand of cricket in Mumbai.

In knockout cricket, decisions — whether tactical or officiating — can shape destinies. A close LBW call, a tight run-out, or a contentious boundary decision could alter momentum instantly. The ICC’s choice of experienced match officials underlines the importance of precision and neutrality at this stage of the tournament.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Glenn McGrath explains why Jasprit Bumrah will sizzle in India’s semi-final clash against England

Defending champions India sealed their place in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2026 with a statement win over West Indies in what was virtually a knockout clash on March 1. After a shaky start to their Super 8 campaign, India regrouped brilliantly to finish second in Group 1 with two wins and one defeat.

At a packed Eden Gardens, the Men in Blue chased down a daunting 196-run target — their highest successful chase in T20 World Cup history. The night belonged to Sanju Samson, whose unbeaten 97 off just 50 balls turned the game on its head. Calm under pressure and fearless in stroke play, Samson guided India home with five wickets to spare, sending fans into a frenzy.

With momentum on their side, India now prepare for a blockbuster semi-final clash against England on March 5 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Glenn McGrath on why Jasprit Bumrah will be a key for India in the semifinal clash against England

Ahead of the much-anticipated showdown, Australian pace legend Glenn McGrath has thrown his weight behind India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, calling him a ‘big-game player’ who thrives under pressure. McGrath’s words carry weight. Known for his own mastery in ICC knockouts, the former Australian great understands what it takes to deliver when the stakes are highest. According to him, Bumrah possesses that rare quality of elevating his performance when the spotlight shines brightest.

“I think Jasprit is a big-game player. Sometimes in the big games, these players lift from their normal game. Not saying the focus is not there, but they really love those big moments, big games. I’ve got total faith in Bumrah when it comes to big matches,” McGrath said, as quoted by India Today.

Bumrah has already played a crucial role in India’s campaign, striking at vital moments and keeping batters guessing with his pinpoint yorkers and deceptive slower deliveries. On a batting-friendly surface like Wankhede, his ability to nail yorkers at the death and break partnerships in the powerplay could prove decisive.

India’s pace spearhead has consistently delivered in high-pressure tournaments, and with England boasting an explosive batting lineup, the responsibility on his shoulders will be immense. Yet, as McGrath suggested, this is precisely the kind of occasion Bumrah relishes.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 Semifinals: Date, Match Time, Venue, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

Wankhede set for another India-England classic

The semi-final between India and England promises to be a cracker. Scheduled for March 5 at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium, the clash is expected to be a high-scoring thriller given the venue’s history of run-fests.

Interestingly, this will mark the third T20 World Cup where these two powerhouses meet in the semi-finals, adding another fiery chapter to an already intense rivalry. Both sides are packed with match-winners capable of turning the contest within a few overs.

England’s aggressive brand of cricket, combined with India’s depth in both batting and bowling, sets the stage for a mouth-watering encounter. With the pitch likely to favour stroke-makers, bowlers who can handle pressure — especially in the death overs — will be worth their weight in gold.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Sanju Samson’s wife Charulatha shares heartwarming posts after star Indian opener’s heroics against West Indies

In a development that has grabbed global attention, fourteen Pakistan men’s cricketers have been named in the 247-player longlist for this year’s The Hundred, amid the speculation that they might be overlooked due to geopolitical tensions.

Reports had suggested that the four Indian-owned franchises — MI London, Sunrisers Leeds, Manchester Super Giants and Southern Brave — could avoid selecting Pakistan players. However, the longlist announcement has somehow countered those claims, with Pakistan boasting the highest number of overseas representatives in the top 50 ‘hero’ players — one more than South Africa.

Adding another layer of intrigue, this year’s tournament will overlap with a Pakistan Test series, potentially creating selection and availability challenges for the players involved.

Haris Rauf among marquee international names

Leading the charge is express pacer Haris Rauf, who has been included in the prestigious ‘Marquee Players International’ category. Rauf carries the maximum reserve price of £100,000, placing him alongside some of world cricket’s biggest T20 stars.

The marquee international list also features Aiden Markram, David Miller, Daryl Mitchell and Sunil Narine. Rauf’s inclusion underlines his growing reputation as a high-impact T20 bowler capable of shifting momentum in a matter of overs.

Players had to submit themselves for auction consideration, after which the eight franchises provided 75–100 nominations each. The final longlist was then curated from those submissions.

Shaheen Afridi, Shadab Khan lead tier one category

Among the elite ‘hero’ categories, Pakistan pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, all-rounder Shadab Khan and spinner Usman Tariq have been placed in Tier One — a reflection of their T20 pedigree and international experience.

Tier Two includes dynamic all-rounder Saim Ayub and mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed. Interestingly, Ayub has opted for the top reserve price bracket despite being listed in Tier Two, signalling confidence in his market value.

The first 30 names on the men’s longlist also feature prominent English stars such as Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root and Adil Rashid, along with international T20 specialists like Quinton de Kock and Finn Allen.

The men’s auction is scheduled to take place on March 12 in Piccadilly, London, where franchises will strategically assemble their squads. With political undercurrents, scheduling clashes and high reserve prices in play, this year’s auction promises drama even before a ball is bowled.

Also READ: Former Pakistan cricketers react after Men in Green knocked out of T20 World Cup 2026

Men’s Hundred longlist – first 30 players

• Marquee domestic: Jonny Bairstow, Adil Rashid, James Vince, Jordan Cox, Joe Root
• Marquee international: Aiden Markram, David Miller, Sunil Narine, Haris Rauf, Daryl Mitchell
• Tier 1 batters: Finn Allen, Quinton De Kock, Ryan Rickelton, Tim Seifert, Zak Crawley
• Tier 1 fast bowlers: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood, Sonny Baker, Saqib Mahmood
• Tier 1 allrounders: Tom Curran, Shadab Khan, Azmatullah Omarzai, David Willey, Gus Atkinson
• Tier 1 spin bowlers: Akeal Hosein, AM Ghazanfar, Rishad Hossain, Usman Tariq, Jafer Chohan

Also READ: ‘Group of players will speak up’: Moeen Ali issues stark warning of backlash over Pakistan snub from The Hundred 2026

In the high-octane world of Indian cricket, where the spotlight relentlessly follows every boundary and wicket, Sanju Samson has carved a niche as a silent assassin. However, standing firmly behind the Rajasthan Royals captain and Indian wicket-keeper is a woman who embodies a similar sense of quiet strength and grace. Charulatha Remesh, Samson’s wife, is much more than just a supportive spouse; she is a professional entrepreneur and the foundational pillar of strength for one of India’s most naturally gifted cricketers.

While many celebrity couples thrive on constant media visibility, Sanju and Charulatha have cultivated a life rooted in privacy, academic excellence, and mutual respect. Let us deep dive into the life of Charulatha, exploring her journey from a science student in Kerala to a modern entrepreneur and the steady anchor in Sanju’s life.

Lesser known facts about Charulatha Remesh

Despite the immense fame surrounding her husband, Charulatha has consciously chosen to maintain an aura of mystery and independence. Her life is a testament to the fact that one can be part of the cricketing elite while staying true to their own identity and professional goals.

Born on October 19 in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Charulatha comes from a family with deep roots in media and public service. Her father, B. Ramesh Kumar, is a veteran in the industry, serving as the Chief News Editor for the prestigious Malayalam newspaper, Mathrubhumi. Her mother, Rajshri Ramesh, brings a background of disciplined service through her work at LIC India.

One of the most defining aspects of Charulatha’s personality is her poise. She is known among fans for her silent prayers in the stands during high-pressure matches. Interestingly, while Sanju is a Christian, Charulatha is a Hindu Nair. Their 2018 wedding became a beautiful symbol of interfaith harmony, as they chose to marry under the Special Marriage Act, emphasizing a bond that transcends religious boundaries.

Also READ: Shikhar Dhawan’s wife: All you need to know about the Irish beauty Sophie Shine

Education and academic excellence

Unlike many who might pivot toward the entertainment industry following a high-profile marriage, Charulatha’s path was paved with academic rigor. She completed her schooling at Arya Central School in Trivandrum, an institution known for its discipline.

Her higher education took place at Mar Ivanios College, where she pursued a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Chemistry. It was within these college corridors that her path first crossed with Sanju’s. However, she didn’t stop at a bachelor’s degree; her drive for professional growth led her to the Loyola College of Social Sciences, where she completed her Postgraduate studies in Human Resources (HR). This solid educational foundation has been the catalyst for her independent career as an entrepreneur.

Professional career and entrepreneurship

Charulatha is often described in media reports as a career-driven individual who manages her own business ventures. While she keeps the specifics of her entrepreneurial work private, her background in Chemistry and Human Resources suggests a versatile professional portfolio.

She has notably avoided the typical influencer route, rarely engaging in brand endorsements or commercial collaborations. Instead, she focuses on her professional autonomy, proving that her identity is not defined solely by her husband’s career. Her ability to balance her business commitments while traveling with Sanju for IPL seasons and international tours is a feat many of her followers admire.

The fairy tale relationship with Samson

The love story of Sanju and Charulatha is a modern-day classic that began long before the fame and the “Captain” tag. It started with a simple Facebook friend request sent by Sanju at 11:11 PM on August 22, 2013.

“From that day till now, almost 5 years I have waited to put a picture with her, and tell the world that I am in love with this special girl,” Sanju once wrote in a heartfelt post.

The couple dated for five years, keeping their relationship entirely under the radar of the paparazzi. They eventually tied the knot on December 22, 2018, in an intimate ceremony at a resort in Kovalam. The wedding was attended by only about 30 close family members, reflecting their preference for meaningful connections over grand displays.

Life in India and social media presence

Charulatha’s social media presence is a refreshing departure from the curated lifestyles often seen online. Her Instagram is a window into her love for travel, family moments, and profound reflections.

In 2025, she gained significant praise for a transformation video where she promoted self-love and body positivity, telling her followers to “just love yourself, be happy, and enjoy your life” regardless of physical changes.

Also READ: Sanju Samson reflects on his batting performance that powered India into the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) takes a massive step against all the players who were in the T20 World Cup 2026 squad. According to fresh reports, the PCB has sanctioned a huge fine for all of their players in the squad. The update came on the evening of Monday (March 2).

According to ESPNcricinfo, “All of Pakistan’s squad members from the T20 World Cup have been fined PKR 5 million (approx US$ 18,000) by the PCB following an underwhelming campaign in which they missed out on the semi-finals.” Its update came as a major shock as it is a rare kind of decision taken by any cricket governing body across the globe.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) issued penalties to the players

The Salman Ali Agha-led team was knocked out of the tournament from the Super 8 stage, even after getting a win under a do-or-die situation against Sri Lanka. From Group 2, it was England and New Zealand, who confirmed their spots in the Semi-finals of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026.

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All of Pakistan’s squad members from the #T20WorldCup have been fined PKR 5 million (approx US$ 18,000) by the PCB following an underwhelming campaign in which they missed out on the semi-finals pic.twitter.com/e2gWVmhs8a

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) March 2, 2026

Mohsin Naqvi-led PCB is unhappy over the team

Even before their clash against Sri Lanka, it was revealed that PCB, headed by chairman Mohsin Naqvi, was not happy at all with the team’s performance in the prestigious tournament. It was reported earlier that the board can consider a major reformation to get the team on the right track. Though, the decision to issue penalties for all of the squad members comes without any early prediction.

It is believed that the board is all set to remove Salman Ali Agha from the captaincy job. Steps are supposed to be taken against some of the players as well including Babar Azam. If Agha loses his position in the team, then who will be the new leader of Pakistan’s T20I squad?

There are several names that are surfacing around as the possible replacements for Captain Agha. Shaheen Afridi and Sadab Khan are among the rumoured names who can become the new skipper of the team. It was also learnt that, Mohsin Naqvi will hold a candid discussion with head coach Mike Hesson regarding the matter.

The captain himself was not happy with the performance

Captain Salman Agha openly admitted that the team did not play to its full potential. He claimed that the middle order did not provide enough support for the top order. From the top order, Sahibzada Farhan was exceptional for the team. Fakhar Zaman, who played against Sri Lanka, also played on a good note. Though, in most of the matches of the T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, the team management left him on the bench.

Against Sri Lanka, in their last match of the Super 8, Pakistan secured a good total of 212, which was good, and they won the match as well. But they needed to claim the contest by a big margin, which they couldn’t. It was the bowling unit’s job to restrict Sri Lanka below the 147-run. In the end, the Men in Green won the match by only 5 runs.

Read More: Sanju Samson’s blazing knock draws Rohit Sharma comparison from ex-Pakistan Skipper

Sanju Samson claimed a rare achievement through his unbeaten, match-winning 97-run knock against the West Indies, last night at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. It was the first instance in the batter’s T20 International, and IPL career, when he remained not out till the end of the innings during a run chase.

The Kerala-born was not in his best ahead Team India kicked off their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign. Ahead of the series, when the Men in Blue brigade was facing New Zealand for a white-ball series, Samson was the first choice opener along with Abhishek. Later, because of a bad form, the team management dropped the batter from the playing combination.

The opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan did not work

The winner of the 2024 T20 World Cup formed a new opening pair with Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma, dropping Samson from the first eleven. Mostly because of the constant low-scoring knocks of Abhishek, the newly formed pair did not work according to the plans. Meanwhile, Sharma registered three ducks in three back-to-back matches he played in the group stage of the tournament.

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After being defeated by South Africa, the team management started to find the best possible combination, keeping the off-forms and inconsistency in mind. Sanju Samson nipped back into the playing combination again. This time, he lived up to the mark. It was the experienced opener who earned the much-needed win for the team.

A rare achievement for Sanju Samson

According to Cricbuzz, “Sanju Samson has opened the batting 29 times in run chase in T20Is and IPL – this is the first instance of him remaining unbeaten till the end of the innings.”

The undisputed 97-run knock came while chasing a target of 196. Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan, both departed cheaply, each scoring 10 runs. Captain Suryakumar Yadav notched up 18 off 16 and Hardik Pandya scored 17 off 14. In the run chase,

Tilak Varma supported the unbeaten opener arguably in the most significant way, scoring 27 runs in 15 balls. Samson remained tall on the crease, he waited for his particular moment for nights. To decorate the landmark knock, the opener collected twelve 4s and four 6s.

Samson paid tributes to Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma

While all the spotlights were on him, Sanju Samson remained humble and paid gratitude to some of the legends of the game like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. After the match, the opener clarified that he learned about the art of run chase from some of these icons.

“There is always a question – what if not? So definitely that keeps on playing in your mind. But when that thought kept on coming, I just brought myself into the present moment, looked at the ball, and trusted myself to react according to its merit. I think that worked out pretty well today”, Samson mentioned in the match after the presentation ceremony.

“I have been playing this format for a very long time. Playing IPL for around 10 to 12 years and being with the country for the last 10 years… I have not always been playing, but I have been looking from the dugout, learning from greats like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma – all the greats”, he added.

Read More: Sanju Samson’s blazing knock draws Rohit Sharma comparison from ex-Pakistan Skipper

Former Indian World Cup winner Krishnamachari Srikkanth has openly blamed West Indies captain Shai. Hope for his team’s heartbreaking five-wicket loss to the defending champions in the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 game on March 1 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

On a flat pitch made for big shots, Shai Hope struggled badly, scoring only 32 runs from 33 balls. He never looked free. He never looked dangerous. His slow knock hurt the team badly, as West Indies could not cross the 200-run mark in their do-or-die Super 8 clash against India.

Still, the West Indies reached 195/4 in 20 overs, thanks to big hits from Rovman Powell (34*) and Jason Holder (37*) after Roston Chase’s brilliant knock of 40 runs off 25 balls against India. Later, Sanju Samson (97*) took the defending champions over the line with four balls to spare in Kolkata.

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Read Also: KKR superstar overtakes Nicholas Pooran, scripts historic West Indies milestone

After the West Indies missed that semifinal spot, Hope admitted that he could have scored faster. But when reporters questioned him again, he angrily said he would take the blame if that made people happy. That reply did not go down well with Srikkanth.

Kris Srikkanth blasts Shai Hope for slow batting and avoiding responsibility

The former Indian captain slammed Hope’s batting and captaincy. He said Hope wasted balls and slowed the innings. He also accused him of shifting focus towards other players instead of taking full responsibility for his team’s failure to make it to the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal.

Srikkanth even questioned the decision to make Hope captain, saying the team paid the price for poor leadership in a do-or-die match. Notably, Hope managed only 62 runs in three games in the Super 8 round after decent outings in the group stage of the tournament.

Kris Srikkanth said in a video posted on his YouTube channel, “He just plays for himself every match. In the post-match interview, he was trying to blame Powell and Holder by saying they didn’t score enough at the end. You were the one who finished the West Indies with your batting. Yet, he never blamed himself. Making you captain was the biggest mistake.”

Kris Srikkanth slams Shai Hope over captaincy blunders

The former Indian chief selector also attacked Shai Hope’s captaincy calls. He pointed out that the skipper used his three spinners for only six overs in total despite the pitch offering some turn. He also felt the power hitter Romario Shepherd should have opened the innings against India instead of Hope.

Srikkanth signed off by saying, “Shai Hope playing in the 11 itself is a waste. He should be inside as a non-playing captain. He should only give directions. He was just wasting balls with the bat. Someone else could have done that. You could have even sent Romario Shepherd to open instead.”

Kishore Shallow hails West Indies for strong T20 World Cup 2026 campaign

Interestingly, the Cricket West Indies (CWI) President Kishore Shallow has praised the West Indies team for their strong fight in the tournament. He congratulated Captain Hope and the players for reaching the Super 8 stage, saying this highlighted how serious they were about their goal.

Shallow also said the team showed great unity and fighting spirit. He also noted that their performance has given new hope and confidence to fans across the Caribbean and brought back pride in West Indies cricket.

Read Also: Anil Kumble tears West Indies apart after their negative mindset against India

Amid the ongoing controversy between India and Pakistan over the Hundred franchise tournament, a final list of Pakistani cricketers has been released. According to reports, out of 63 players, only 14 players from Pakistan are able to make their place in the auction list.

The Men in Green cricketers like Shaheen Afridi, Usman Tariq, Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan, and Saim Ayub are in the list of final players from the nation. However, Sahibzada Farhan, who scored 383 runs in the ongoing T20 World Cup, is not part of the list. Rauf headlines as he is reportedly among the marquee players in the auction list of England’s franchise tournament.

Hundred franchise owners are not interested in Pakistani cricketers

In the auction for the Women’s tournament of the league, Sadia Iqbal and Fatima Sana can also make a final cut. The auction for the women’s Hundred is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, March 11, and the men’s auction will be held on the following day.

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🚨 14 out of 63 Pakistan players shortlisted for The Hundred auction.

– Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Tariq, Shadab Khan, Saim Ayub, Abrar Ahmed, Naseem Shah, Amir, Muhammad Nawaz, Imad Wasim, Zaman Khan, Usama Mir, Akif Javed & Salman Mirza. pic.twitter.com/kZeyhR5D1L

— Sheri. (@CallMeSheri1_) March 2, 2026

Ahead of the auction, it was widely reported that the Hundred franchises, which have linked with the IPL franchises, were not interested in signing any players from the particularcountry. This report spread on social media rapidly and instantly caused a controversy. MI London, Manchester Super Giants, Sunrisers Leeds, and Southern Brave have links with Indian Premier League (IPL) team owners.

Moeen Ali and Michael Vaughan raised their voices against the potential development

A BBC report described the situation as a potential ‘shadow ban’ on the Pakistani cricketers. Former England cricketers like Moeen Ali and Michael Vaughan raised their voices and urged the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to look into the matter.

According to a BBC report, the ECB first wrote to the eight hundred franchises to remind them of their responsibilities on matters of discrimination. Later, a joint statement from the board and all eight franchises was issued with the confirmation that no players will be barred from the tournament based on their respective nationalities.

ECB and the Hundred franchises issued a joint statement for the upcoming auction

“All eight teams commit to selection being based solely on cricketing performance, availability, and the needs of each team. The ECB is committed to ensuring there is no place for discrimination, and has regulations in place to take robust action to tackle any such conduct. Players must not be excluded on the grounds of their nationality”, the joint statement reads.

It is now confirmed that there will be Pakistani cricketers in the men’s and Women’s auction of the Hundred league. But will any of these cricketers find any buyers? It will be interesting to see.

List of Pakistani cricketers who will be up for auction in The Hundred tournament:

Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Tariq, Shadab Khan, Saim Ayub, Abrar Ahmed, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Nawaz, Imad Wasim, Zaman Khan, Usama Mir, Akif Javed & Salman Mirza.

Read More: Not Ravindra Jadeja! Krunal Pandya combines a South African legend and a New Zealand star as the ultimate fielder

Pakistan Cricket has been under real turmoil. After their horrifying performance at the 2026 T20 World Cup, where they were knocked out of the Super 8 stages. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) fined all the players after their dismal show at the major ICC event. The players have been fined PKR 5 million (approx US$ 18,000).

As per reports from Rev Sportz, former ICC umpire Aleem Dar, who was a part of PCB’s revamped selection committee since 2024 October, has resigned from his post on Monday, March 2, 2026. This shocking decision comes at a time when Pakistan’s cricket has been under scrutiny in the cricketing world.

Aleem Dar, the firstscapegoat by PCB

This is not a new sight for the cricketing world, as when there have been poor performances from the Pakistan National Cricket Board, some or the other members, players, and coaches associated with PCB resign or are removed from their respective posts.

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Aleem Dar was among the renowned names selected to the PCB’s restructured selection committee back in 2024, after the side suffered a humiliating innings and 47-run defeat to England despite scoring over 500 runs in the first innings. He was among the four out of the five selectors who were retained by the management.

Apart from him, Azhar Ali, Asad Shafiq, and Aaqib Javed were also retained by PCB. The only change that was made was Usman Hashmi replacing Hassan Cheema as the data analyst. However, after a poor performance from the Pakistan side in the major tournament, another selector has resigned from his post.

Pakistan to have a new committee

Aqib Javed and Asad Shafiq are currently members of the selection committee, tasked with identifying and judging talent for future matches and tournaments. However, Hashmi is on to assist them with the other two members’ tasks; however, his function is purely advisory, and he has no say in the selection process.

According to sources close to the PCB, Aleem Dar has resigned, and while it has been stated that it was a voluntary decision, there are speculations that the selection committee is under increasing pressure following the Pakistani national team’s poor performance in terms of consistency in batting and bowling.

Throughout his more than 20-year career, the 56-year-old officiated 448 international matches. He retired from the profession at the end of Pakistan’s 2024-25 domestic season. Dar has been a crucial member of the ICC Elite and International Panels since 2003. He earned the David Shepherd Trophy for ICC Umpire of the Year three times during his career.

The fallout of failure…

Pakistan selector Aleem Dar resigns.
The former ICC panel umpire was inducted surprisingly in October 2024. #T20WorldCup

— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) March 2, 2026

Pakistan’s selector fiasco is never ending

As per reports from ESPNcricinfo since 2021, has used 26 different selectors for the men’s national side. Aleem Dar becomes the 27th person to be added to the list. Previously, Gary Kirsten resigned as Pakistan’s white-ball (ODI/T20I) head coach in October 2024, just six months into a two-year contract.

Head coach Mike Hesson has also been under fire after the side’s dismal show at the T20 World Cup. The Men in Green did not perform well as per the expectations, except for the last game against Sri Lanka, which they won by 5 runs.

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