PCB grants NOCs to 13 players for overseas leagues

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to 13 national players, clearing the way for their participation in a host of overseas franchise tournaments until the end of 2025.

The move comes amid a broader realignment of Pakistan’s white-ball setup, with several top stars making their return to the global T20 circuit. The high-profile trio of Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi—all absent from Pakistan’s recent T20I series against Bangladesh—are now confirmed entries for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) Draft on June 19, with their NOCs valid from December 14 to 28.

Among others:

Mohammad Amir has received clearance to continue for Essex in the T20 Blast through July 18. Haris Rauf is all set to feature in the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2025 season starting this week.

Shan Masood, Pakistan’s Test captain, has been cleared to play County Championship cricket for Leicestershire until September 1. A host of pacers also received extended County clearances:

Mohammad Abbas (until July 2),

Hasan Ali (until September 30),

Khurram Shahzad (until September 27).

Additionally, Mohammad Nawaz has been granted NOCs for both the Guyana Super League and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), while youngster Khawaja Nafay will take part in the Global Super League, signaling confidence in his international readiness.