PCB Withholds NOC For Naseem Shah's Participation In The Hundred 2024

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly refused to issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Naseem Shah for his participation in The Hundred tournament, which is set to commence on July 24.

The 21-year-old fast bowler was selected by Birmingham Phoenix for £125,000 during The Hundred Draft 2024 held in March. However, Phoenix might now have to proceed without one of their key overseas players.

According to Geo News, the PCB's decision not to grant Naseem Shah clearance is based on workload management and injury prevention. Naseem is considered a vital player for Pakistan across all formats.

Naseem underwent shoulder surgery in October 2023, which ruled him out of the ICC World Cup 2023. Pakistan failed to progress beyond the group stage in his absence.

Post-surgery, doctors recommended a rest and rehabilitation period of four to six weeks before Naseem could return to play. This injury sidelined him for at least three to four months.

Naseem made his comeback in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 earlier this year, playing for Islamabad United, who won the title. He also participated in the T20I series that followed and was part of the T20 World Cup squad.

Upcoming Assignments

Pakistan's upcoming schedule includes crucial World Test Championship matches. They will face Bangladesh in a two-match Test series starting on August 21.

Despite denying Naseem an NOC for The Hundred, PCB has granted permission only to Usama Mir so far for participation in the 100-ball tournament.

Pending NOCs

Shaheen Afridi and Imad Wasim, who were also selected by different teams during The Hundred Draft, are still awaiting their NOCs from PCB.

Earlier reports indicated that PCB would deny NOCs to Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi for their participation in Global T20 Canada. While there is no official update yet, PCB has hinted that NOCs will be issued once GT20 gets ICC approval.

Naseem Shah's importance to Pakistan cricket cannot be overstated. His recent performances have shown his potential and value as a key player across all formats. Ensuring his fitness and availability for national duties remains a priority for PCB.