“Things like this have been happening for centuries”: Moeen Ali
The controversy centers on the four franchises recently acquired by IPL-linked entities: Manchester Super Giants (RPSG), MI London (Reliance), Southern Brave (GMR) and Sunrisers Leeds (Sun Group).
Various media reports suggest an ‘unwritten rule’. is in play, where these teams, following the precedent set by their parent IPL organisations, will not bid for Pakistani talent. Moeen stressed that while players often remain silent to avoid ‘getting in trouble’ with powerful global owners who control leagues everywhere, the prospect of this trend sweeping into the UK is unacceptable. He pointed out that this silence stems from the fear that speaking out could affect a player’s career, but he stressed that the time for a solution is now because the current situation is “not fair” and “terrible.”
“Things like this have been happening for centuries, now it’s time for a solution because it’s not fair. It clearly discriminates against certain types of people. It’s terrible. I just find it strange that no one really talks about it too much. Especially at the top, no one really mentions it. People haven’t talked about it so they don’t get in trouble. It’s so difficult because all these teams are everywhere in every league. So if players speak out now, or if they If you say something, it affects their career. It’s a difficult position for players to be in. If you’re an older player like me, you don’t really care.” Moeen was quoted as saying by News18.
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The ECB reminds all eight franchises of mandatory anti-discrimination obligations
In response to increasing pressure, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has reportedly taken the step of writing to all eight franchises to remind them of their mandatory anti-discrimination responsibilities. The tournament remains under the jurisdiction of the independent cricket regulator, and the ECB has warned that any evidence of a blanket ban based on nationality will be viewed with due care.
\Moeen noted that while other countries may operate differently, Britain has a more robust system to address these concerns. The franchises now face a complex dilemma: maintain their domestic political stance or risk a head-on collision with Britain’s strict regulatory and legal frameworks regarding fair employment and selection.
“In Britain I’m not sure this can happen – and I hope it won’t happen. It just shouldn’t happen, hopefully it won’t happen. We’ll just have to wait and see if it happens, but I think it would be a huge shame, and I’m sure the ECB will certainly keep an eye on it. There will be a group of players who will speak out. Things will be done about it. have Pakistani heritage – they need to make their voices heard.” Moeen added.
A united front against discrimination against Pakistani players in The Hundred
Moeen Ali did not mince his words when discussing the impact of these reports, predicting that a significant group of players would lead a public protest if the criticism materialized. He emphasized that the issue transcends heritage and calls on all stakeholders involved to find their voice.
By speaking out, Moeen hopes to encourage other cricketers to put honesty above professional safety, especially as the news is still “very new” and the full extent of the franchise strategies have yet to be seen in the auction room. His judgment serves as a preemptive strike against any attempt to introduce external political prejudice into the English domestic summer.
“The news is obviously very new. So I haven’t really had a chance to talk to anyone, but most of the players were on the same page. It would be very interesting to see what happens because I really think other countries can do what they want. Obviously we have no control over those things, but in Britain we have a bit more say in these things.” Moeen concluded.
READ also: Michael Vaughan faces backlash after urging ECB to rein in Indian owners over Pakistani players’ criticism of The Hundred 2026
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