The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has suspended no-objection certificates (NOCs) previously issued to national cricketers for participation in foreign leagues. The move follows Pakistan’s disappointing loss in the Asia Cup final and signals a shift toward performance-based approvals for future overseas commitments.
PCB Suspends All Previously Issued NOCs
A notification from the PCB confirmed that all NOCs for participation in foreign leagues have been suspended with immediate effect. This includes approvals already granted for the Big Bash League (BBL) and other tournaments.
The suspension directly impacts leading players such as Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan, and Faheem Ashraf. These players had secured contracts with international franchises, particularly in Australia’s BBL.
Performance-Based Criteria for Future Approvals
According to PCB sources, future NOC approvals will be linked to both international and domestic performance. Players must meet set benchmarks to secure permission to play overseas.
Those failing to meet performance standards will be directed to the National Cricket Academy to work with coaches and improve their skills before reapplying for overseas contracts.
Officials highlighted that this decision aims to ensure players prioritize Pakistan’s performance in international cricket and domestic tournaments over foreign league commitments.
Big Bash League Participation Under Threat
The suspension has particularly affected players preparing for Australia’s BBL. Shaheen Shah Afridi, who was set for his debut season with Brisbane Heat after being picked first in the BBL Draft, now faces uncertainty.
Brisbane Heat had even announced the launch of a “Shaheen Shah Afridi Fan Bay” at the Gabba to celebrate his inclusion. The special section was set to be open for all five of Brisbane Heat’s home fixtures, offering limited seats for fans. The suspension of his NOC could disrupt this much-anticipated debut.
Strategic Intent Behind the Decision
The PCB’s new approach signals a clear message: national duty comes before commercial opportunities abroad. By conditioning league participation on performance, the board aims to motivate players to remain consistent at the highest level.
While players and franchises may view the move as restrictive, officials argue that the policy is necessary for Pakistan’s cricketing future. They stressed that maintaining high performance standards is essential to restore confidence after recent setbacks.
The suspension of NOCs is likely to spark debate within cricketing circles, especially among players who balance international duties with league contracts. However, the PCB appears determined to establish performance as the main criterion for granting NOCs.
Whether this strategy leads to improved international performances or creates friction with star players remains to be seen. For now, Pakistan’s top cricketers must prove their worth in national colors before stepping onto foreign league stages.
