PCB withholds NOCs for national cricketers ahead of foreign league commitments

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly withheld the No Objection Certificates (NOCs) previously issued to several national players for participation in foreign T20 leagues, including Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL), according to well-placed sources.

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Sources within the PCB have confirmed that Chief Operating Officer (COO) Sameer Ahmed has issued fresh directives regarding the status of these NOCs, potentially impacting the players’ contractual obligations with overseas franchises.

High-profile players including Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, and Hassan Khan were all granted NOCs earlier this year to feature in the upcoming BBL season. However, with the board now withholding these clearances, the players’ participation hangs in the balance.

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According to details, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi were initially given permission to play from December 14, 2025, to January 28, 2026. Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah had NOCs valid from December 1, 2025, to January 15, 2026, while Hassan Khan was cleared for the period between December 14, 2025, and January 25, 2026.

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The move could significantly affect the players’ deals with foreign franchises, potentially leading to contractual complications and financial implications.

The PCB has yet to issue an official statement regarding the reason behind the decision.