The Analyst Inside Cricket THE STENCH OF COLLUSION
Feb 20, 2026
Peter della Penna, journalist specializing in Associate Nations and USA cricket. He discusses IPL-linked Hundred teams barring Pakistani players and the clash with ECB inclusivity aims. He explores the rise of USA cricket, governance challenges, and how associate teams are shaking up the T20 World Cup. Predictions for likely semi finalists and thoughts on T20 batting form follow.
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Franchises Blocking Pakistan Players
- Indian-owned Hundred franchises appear to be blocking picks of Pakistan players, creating a reputational and inclusivity problem for the ECB.
- Simon Hughes and Peter Della Penna warn this undermines diversity promises and weakens the competition's integrity.
Pakistani Players In MLC Squads
- Peter Della Penna describes how MI New York and Texas Super Kings include players of Pakistani origin who now represent the USA.
- He uses Essan Adil and Muhammad Mohsen as examples to show inconsistent application of selection practices.
Sale Of Franchises Limits ECB Control
- The ECB faces a dilemma because selling franchises to IPL owners reduced its control over selection policies.
- Simon Mann says that unofficial agent-driven rules still damage the ECB's diversity commitments and public credibility.