Support has emerged from England in favour of Pakistani cricketers amid controversy surrounding alleged restrictions linked to franchise ownership, with concerns raised over the impact on the country’s domestic competitions.
England T20 captain Harry Brook stated that Pakistan is a major cricketing nation and said its absence from major tournaments would be regrettable. He emphasized that participation from all leading teams strengthens the competition and adds value to the event.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan described the situation as potentially harmful for English cricket, warning that broader implications could affect the integrity and reputation of domestic leagues.
Vaughan added that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) should ensure its events remain free from political influence. He cautioned that any restrictions could also impact players of Pakistani origin living in the United Kingdom and called for immediate clarification from the authorities.
The debate has intensified on social media, where fans and analysts have urged transparency regarding participation policies and franchise decisions. No official statement has yet been issued by the concerned cricket authorities in response to the concerns raised.
