PCB Denies NOC Requests from Players for Global T20 League Participation

Lahore:
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has denied requests for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from senior players Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi to participate in the Global T20 League, citing a demanding international schedule. The PCB stated, “The PCB had received NOC requests from Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi for the Global T20 event, among other players. After considering Pakistan’s busy and packed cricket calendar from August 2024 to March 2025, which includes nine ICC World Test Championship matches and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, and following consultations with the three players and the national selection committee, it has been decided to decline their requests.”

The Canadian league is set to take place from July 25 to August 11.

The PCB emphasized that the decision was made to manage the workload of these players, who are expected to play extensively in the coming months. “The three are all-format cricketers and their services are expected to be required in the upcoming eight months during which Pakistan will play nine Tests, 14 ODIs, and nine T20Is,” the statement said.

In line with the PCB’s workload management policy, it was deemed best for Pakistan cricket and the players themselves to skip the upcoming event in Canada to ensure they remain in optimal mental and physical condition for the season. The season will commence with a two-Test series against Bangladesh. Similarly, Naseem Shah was also denied permission for The Hundred based on the same rationale.

However, the PCB has approved NOCs for Asif Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Amir, and Mohammad Nawaz to participate in other leagues.