The Hundred 2023: Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Marsh pulled out of third edition by Cricket Australia

Star Australia cricketers Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Marsh have been asked to pull out of the third season of England’s premier franchise competition ‘The Hundred’ following discussions with Cricket Australia (CA). Both Maxwell and Marsh were supposed to play under Trevor Bayliss at London Spirit on £125,000 (US$160,000) contracts.

However, the duo has been asked to pull out by CA to manage their workloads ahead of ODI World Cup 2023 in India and T20 World Cup 2024 in the Caribbean and the US. The board has urged the players to remain physically refreshed ahead of the mega events as they’re coming from recent injuries.

"In discussions with both players it was agreed that with a long campaign ahead, including two World Cups, it's in their best interests to be physically refreshed and at their best for the one-day World Cup and beyond. Both are also coming from recent injuries,” a Cricket Australia spokesperson was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Following their decision, Spirit now have two vacant spots for overseas players a month before the tournament starts. Notably, several potential replacements have commitments in other leagues such as the Global T20 Canada, the Caribbean Premier League and the Lanka Premier League during The Hundred's window from August 1-27.

Notably, the tournament has struggled to secure big international stars for the entirety in the first two seasons and the franchises have once again given importance to a player’s availability over star quality ahead of the 2023 edition.

The Hundred Season 3 to be played from August 01

Sri Lankan wrist-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga, who was signed by Manchester Originals for £125,000 is also expected to withdraw from the tournament as it is set to clash with the Lanka Premier League (LPL). Hasaranga will most likely be replaced by Pakistan's leg spinner Usama Mir. 

On the other hand, New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell, who was signed by Northern Superchargers on a £75,000 deal has also withdrawn after rupturing his Achilles and will be replaced by Matthew Short.

The men's tournament is set to begin on August 01 with the opening game between Trent Rockets and Southern Brave.