The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to several key national players—including Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan—allowing them to participate in major international leagues throughout 2025.
This decision is part of the PCB’s broader strategy to provide players with international exposure while managing their workloads. Under current guidelines, centrally contracted players are permitted to play in a maximum of two overseas leagues per calendar year. NOC approvals are granted within this framework to ensure a balance between national duties and franchise commitments.
Player Participation Breakdown:
- Big Bash League (BBL): Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan
- County Cricket: Mohammad Amir, Shan Masood, Kashif Ali, Abbas Afridi, Khawaja Khurram, Hasan Ali
- Global Super League: Khawaja Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz
- Caribbean Premier League (CPL): Mohammad Nawaz, Hassan Khan
While Babar Azam has not yet appeared in the initial list of BBL 15 draft registrants, his inclusion in the NOC list signals likely availability. The BBL 15 Draft, scheduled for June 19, 2025, is notable as it marks the first time Pakistani players will be eligible for the full season.
The PCB’s approach is designed not only to keep players active during the off-season but also to help them sharpen their skills in varied conditions—crucial preparation for major events like the ICC T20 World Cup.
With the global cricket landscape increasingly dominated by overlapping franchise schedules, the PCB’s policy reflects a balance between safeguarding national interests and supporting players’ professional and financial growth. By allowing top talent to engage with international leagues, the board ensures they stay match-fit, motivated, and well-prepared for future challenges in Pakistan colors.
