PCB’s Hesitation
Pakistan captain Babar Azam, wicket-keeper Mohammad Rizwan, and pace bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi are still waiting for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to play in the Global T20 Canada league. The PCB issued NOCs to 12 players for other leagues on Tuesday but held back on these top players. A PCB official said, “The PCB is not comfortable with the status of the Global League and has sought some information from the organizers and ICC T20 World Cup 2024, which is why the issuance of NOCs has been delayed.”
Global T20 Canada League Schedule
The Global T20 Canada League will run from July 25 to August 11. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Test series against Bangladesh at home starts around August 19. This overlap might also influence the PCB’s decision to delay issuing NOCs to key players like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi.
NOCs Issued to Other Players
The PCB granted NOCs to several players for different leagues. Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, and Zaman Khan received NOCs for the USA Major League, running from July 4 to 28. Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Hasnain, Salman Ali Agha, and Shadab Khan got clearance for the Lanka Premier League, which ends on July 21. Fakhar Zaman received an NOC for the Caribbean Premier League, scheduled from August 29 to October 6. Usama Mir got clearance for the Hundred, from July 23 to August 20, and Mohammad Amir for county cricket.
Surprise Exclusions
The PCB did not grant clearance to youngsters Saim Ayub and Azam Khan for the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), surprising many given their recent performances.
Players Already Abroad
Shadab Khan, Salman Ali Agha, and Mohammad Hasnain are already in Sri Lanka for the Lanka Premier League. Their participation highlights the PCB’s selective approach to issuing NOCs.
PCB’s Concerns
The PCB’s reluctance to issue NOCs to Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi stems from concerns about the Global T20 Canada League’s status. The board has requested more information from the league organizers and the International Cricket Council (ICC). Until these concerns are resolved, the PCB will likely withhold clearance for these key players.
Impact on Players
The delay in issuing NOCs affects the players’ preparation and participation in international leagues. Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan are crucial to Pakistan’s cricketing strategy. Their participation in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 Canada League could provide valuable experience. However, the PCB’s cautious approach prioritizes player welfare and national commitments.
Conclusion
As the Global T20 Canada League approaches, the cricketing world awaits the PCB’s decision on issuing NOCs to Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi. The PCB’s cautious stance underscores the importance of league credibility and player safety. Meanwhile, other Pakistani players continue to represent the nation in various international leagues, showcasing Pakistan cricket’s depth and talent.
