The Hundred

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In a recent development, it is now being confirmed that Australia’s David Warner and Marcus Stoinis and Pakistan’s Shaheen Afridi have pulled out of the inaugural edition of The Hundred owing to their national commitments. While the Aussies have been named in Australia’s preliminary squad against West Indies, Afridi has been included in the Pakistan squad for the England series. Consequently, they will not be able to feature in the tournament set to happen from July 21 to August 21.

Apart from the national commitments, the logistical arrangements and mandatory quarantine rules will also make it difficult for several overseas stars to feature in the tournament.

Disappointing to lose players: England and Wales Cricket Board

"It is obviously disappointing to lose players with the ability of David and Marcus, but the realities of Covid mean there are practicalities that are difficult for some overseas players to overcome," the ECB said in a statement to ESPNcricinfo.

“Replacement overseas players will be signed by Southern Brave, and we look forward to the Hundred showcasing world-class cricket this summer,” it added.

Meanwhile, as many as seven other players from Down Under are currently part of the Hundred- Glenn Maxwell, Jhye Richardson, Adam Zampa, Chris Lynn, Aaron Finch, Nathan Coulter-Nile and D’Arcy Short. Among these, only Lynn, Coulter-Nile and Short have confirmed participation in the tournament, while others have not yet given their word.