Shaheen Shah Afridi is in discussions to join Canada’s Global T20 league after withdrawing from the Hundred, citing a desire to prioritize family time. This decision is seen as a setback for the Hundred, where Afridi played last year and was set to return for Welsh Fire on a £100,000 contract. However, the ECB confirmed Afridi’s withdrawal, and Afridi expressed regret at missing out on playing for Welsh Fire this season.
Afridi’s decision stems from his reluctance to spend extended periods away from his family, which conflicts with the Hundred’s schedule from July 23 to August 18. The PCB restricts Pakistani players on central contracts to just two No-Objection Certificates per season for participation in foreign leagues. Afridi’s existing commitment to the Desert Vipers in UAE’s ILT20 means he prefers to utilize his second NOC for the Global T20 league in Canada, scheduled from July 25 to August 11.
The Global T20 league, which returned in 2023 after the Covid pandemic postponement, has attracted notable players like Andre Russell and Mohammad Rizwan. Despite past issues reported by FICA regarding payment delays, Afridi is considering this option due to its shorter duration compared to the Hundred.
Welsh Fire has named Matt Henry as Afridi’s replacement for the Hundred. However, Henry might miss the early matches if his MLC franchise advances to the playoffs. The ECB’s strategy to attract private investment includes competing with higher salaries offered by other leagues, influencing their approach to league participation.
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