PCB Hesitates On NOCs For Babar Azam After T20 World Cup Performance

Pakistan's cricket team, including captain Babar Azam, has faced setbacks after a poor T20 World Cup performance. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has denied several players the No Objection Certificate (NOC) needed to participate in international franchise leagues.

Shadab Khan is currently playing in the Lanka Premier League (LPL), while others have received NOCs for different leagues. However, reports indicate that some star players have not been granted permission to play abroad.

Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan were expected to join the GT20 League in Canada but haven't received approval from PCB. Mohammad Amir was allowed to play county cricket but not the GT20.

The PCB is uncertain about the Canadian tournament and seeks more information before issuing NOCs. "The PCB is not comfortable with the status of the Global League and has sought some information from the organisers and ICC, which is why the issuance of NOCs has been delayed," a PCB official told PTI.

The GT20 Canada league runs from July 25 to August 11, while Pakistan's Test series against Bangladesh starts on August 19. The workload for Pakistani players could be a concern if they participate in both events.

Pakistan's performance in T20 cricket has been debated, but their World Test Championship results are also disappointing. They finished 5th in the inaugural cycle (2019-21) and dropped to 7th in the 2021-23 cycle. Currently, they are 5th in the ongoing cycle.

A strong Test series against Bangladesh could significantly improve their standings. The participation of key players in international leagues remains uncertain as PCB evaluates their options.

The situation with NOCs might resolve soon, but it remains crucial for Pakistani players' involvement in global tournaments. The outcome will affect both their international exposure and domestic commitments.