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Shaheen Afridi, a top Pakistani fast bowler, is set to receive £5,000 from The Hundred despite withdrawing from the league, according to reports in the Telegraph. Afridi opted out of his contract with Welsh Fire to join the Global T20 Canada league.
Welsh Fire had signed Afridi in the £100,000 category, the league’s second-highest band, based on his performances in six games last year where he made significant contributions.
Afridi’s decision to skip The Hundred was influenced by its clash with the Global T20 Canada, scheduled from July 25 to August 11, overlapping with The Hundred’s dates of July 23 to August 18.
Under The Hundred’s policy, players receive a fee equivalent to five percent of their contract for image rights, which Afridi will retain despite his withdrawal.
Reports indicate Afridi will not face sanctions from The Hundred for his decision and remains eligible for the 2025 competition draft. However, Welsh Fire’s plans were disrupted, losing one of their two £100,000 slots.
As a replacement for Afridi, Welsh Fire has recruited New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry, who played for the franchise previously. Henry’s contract is valued at £95,000 but does not include the initial image rights tranche given to new signings.
Shaheen Afridi’s decision to withdraw from The Hundred is viewed as a significant setback for the league. Reports suggest that Afridi is considered one of the tournament’s top and most marketable players, crucial for enhancing its global appeal amid struggles to gain popularity.
Afridi opted for the Global T20 Canada league, representing Toronto Nationals, citing the tournament’s shorter duration as allowing him more time at home compared to The Hundred.
The emergence of Global T20 Canada as a competitive alternative for players has raised concerns about The Hundred’s ability to attract top talent without increasing remuneration. The league may need to revise its strategy to retain and attract leading players in the future.
Afridi’s last appearance was during the T20 World Cup 2024, where he delivered a commendable performance with the ball.
