LAHORE – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has refused no-objection certificate (NOC) requests from captain Babar Azam, pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, and wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan. The players had applied to join the Global T20 league in Canada, scheduled from July 25 to August 11, 2024.
PCB Cites Busy International Calendar
The PCB made the decision after discussions with the players and the national selection committee. The board wants to keep the core team players fully available for Pakistan’s packed cricket schedule from August 2024 to March 2025.
This includes nine ICC World Test Championship matches, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, and various limited-overs series. The season kicks off with a two-Test series against Bangladesh.
Focus on Player Fitness and Workload Management
Babar, Shaheen, and Rizwan are all-format players. Their roles will be vital across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is during the next eight months. The PCB aims to manage their workload carefully to protect their fitness and performance.
This decision follows the refusal of an NOC for fast bowler Naseem Shah to play in The Hundred league for similar reasons.
NOCs Approved for White-Ball Specialists
In contrast, the PCB has approved NOCs for white-ball cricketers such as Asif Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Amir, and Mohammad Nawaz. Iftikhar and Nawaz also hold central contracts with the PCB.
Technical Process for NOCs
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi previously said the board would develop a clear process for issuing NOCs. Players meeting the criteria would be allowed to participate in franchise leagues. However, the national team’s needs remain the priority.
Looking Forward
Pakistan faces a challenging international season ahead. The PCB is committed to safeguarding player health and ensuring the team performs at its best.
