BBL 2025 gets green light for pakistani stars after PCB decision

In a promising development for Australian cricket fans, multiple top T20 players from Pakistan will be available to play in the Big Bash League (BBL) after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) issued the long awaited No Objection Certificates (NOCs). The development comes just weeks before the BBL is set to begin on December 14, ending a long period of uncertainty that had pushed franchises and fans alike to the edge of their seats.

The suspension of NOCs in September after Pakistan lost a tight Asia Cup 2025 final against India, had left stars like Babar Azam (Sydney Sixers), Shaheen Shah Afridi (Brisbane Heat), Mohammad Rizwan (Melbourne Renegades), Haris Rauf, and Shadab Khan in limbo. With players barred from playing in overseas leagues, they had little option but to play domestic competitions like the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, leaving BBL franchises scrambling to modify their plans.

Following thorough negotiations, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi guaranteed CA that NOCs would not be denied any players that met the basic fitness requirements and could make them available for their national teams. Players will now be allowed to play in up to two leagues overseas in a given year, provided they are not needed for over five-match cricket in the coming series with England and New Zealand. Todd Greenberg, the CEO of CA, welcomed this new order, stating, “The flair of Pakistani cricket brings excitement and quality to our league, both on and off the field.”

BBL Poised for a Star-Studded Season as Pakistani Players Suiting Up 

Franchises have already been getting ready to take advantage of these stars. The Brisbane Heat created a dedicated section for fans called the “Shaheen zone,” and the Melbourne Stars have had special ledges setup for Rauf. On the field, Babar will be in a position to anchor the middle order for the Sydney Sixers; Afridi’s raw pace is sure to trouble opposing batters, and Rizwan’s glove work will be important for the Renegades. Analysts are even indicating that attendance and viewership may increase by up to 20% simply because of the star power these international players bring.

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Although cricket fans in Pakistan have had a mixed reaction- happy for the players' financial gain, but frustrated with the uncertainty of the board attitude - this is a reminder of the fine line between domestic needs and international exposure to the 'game'. With the final BBL drafts fast approaching, the approval of Pakistan's best T20 players is not only exciting but also exciting for spectators; we anticipate an exciting series of games, sold out arenas, and magnificent moments to witness in Australia.

Highlights Include:

Players Approved: Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan

BBL Impact: More engagement with fans, multiple players receiving substantial contracts

PCB Position: Approvals were based on performance of the national team

CA Position: "Thrilled- Pak flair adds to our product" -Todd Greenberg