The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially issued No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to 13 top-tier national players, clearing them to participate in several high-profile franchise leagues worldwide.
This progressive move reflects the PCB’s commitment to enhancing player exposure and fostering international experience for its elite cricketers.
At the forefront of this wave are star batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, who have been confirmed as entrants in the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) 2025 Draft, scheduled for June 19.
Their anticipated appearance in Australia’s flagship T20 league is expected to significantly boost global viewership and add firepower to the tournament lineup.
Accompanying them will be pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi and crafty spinner Shadab Khan, both of whom are also set to feature in the BBL 2025 season.
Notably, Babar, Rizwan, and Shaheen have all been absent from recent T20I matches for Pakistan, missing both the series against New Zealand and the home games against Bangladesh earlier this year.
Their involvement in the BBL will offer a prime stage to remain match-fit and sharpen their skills against top international competition.
The PCB’s statement released on Tuesday outlined the full list of players receiving NOCs. Among them, Mohammad Nawaz stands out with a dual NOC that allows him to first represent Guyana in the Guyana Super League, followed by action in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025.
Rising star Muhammad Hassan Khan has also been cleared for the CPL, marking a key opportunity in his developing career.
Veteran fast bowler Mohammad Amir has secured an NOC until July 18 to continue his T20 stint with Essex in England’s Vitality Blast, while Test captain Shan Masood will stay with Leicestershire in the County Championship until September 1.
Joining him in England’s red-ball competition are pacers Mohammad Abbas, Hasan Ali, and Khurram Shahzad, all cleared to compete and refine their skills in seam-friendly conditions.
Additionally, young batting talent Khawaja Nafay has been granted permission to join the Global Super League, underlining PCB’s strategic vision of broadening the international footprint of Pakistani players.
This comprehensive push by the board promises to uplift Pakistani cricket’s profile and deepen its influence in the global T20 and first-class circuit.