Former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has disclosed that he was rejected for a coaching position in the Caribbean Premier League strictly because of his Pakistani nationality.

Speaking on a recent cricket podcast, Mahmood detailed how a CPL franchise offered him a coaching role shortly after the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the offer was subsequently pulled when the team management informed him that they were not permitted to hire Pakistani coaches or players.

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Mahmood, who holds British citizenship and possesses extensive coaching experience in both the English county setup and the Pakistan national team, highlighted a growing barrier in global franchise cricket.

He noted that as IPL-based ownership groups expand their reach into tournaments like the SA20 and Major League Cricket, securing opportunities has become increasingly difficult for Pakistani players and coaching staff.

This revelation comes amid reports that four Indian-owned franchises in England's The Hundred tournament might actively avoid signing Pakistani cricketers in the upcoming draft.

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The England and Wales Cricket Board has responded by warning franchises that while it cannot dictate player purchases, any proof of discriminatory selection practices will trigger strict disciplinary actions and potential independent regulatory investigations.

Prominent figures in English cricket have also voiced their disapproval. Current white-ball captain Harry Brook described the potential exclusion of Pakistani players from The Hundred as a sad development, while former captain Michael Vaughan firmly asserted that geopolitical issues must remain separate from cricketing decisions.