From Leagues to Contracts: The NOC Saga in Pakistani Cricket

The issue of granting No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to Pakistani cricketers for participation in overseas T20 leagues has been a contentious one, leading to conflicts between the players and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Last year, when the central contracts were signed between the players and the PCB, a clause was introduced limiting players to participating in only three T20 leagues during the year, including the Pakistan Super League (PSL). This effectively meant that players were allowed to play in two overseas T20 leagues in a year.

Recently, Mohammad Haris faced denial of an NOC for the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), even though he had already traveled to Bangladesh for the tournament. The PCB adhered to the contract clause, denying Haris a third NOC for the ongoing BPL since he had already played in two overseas T20 tournaments within the specified period.

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However, there have been exceptions made by the PCB in issuing a third NOC to Azam Khan and Shadab Khan for their participation in the ongoing ILT20. According to Pakistani journalist Arfa Feroz Zake, the PCB made this exception to maintain good relations with the Emirates Cricket Board.

The journalist also noted that the PCB’s decision not to issue NOCs to Pakistani players for the BPL could potentially harm its relationship with the Bangladesh Cricket Board. This situation highlights the delicate balance the PCB is trying to maintain between allowing players to participate in various leagues and honoring contractual obligations while also considering diplomatic relationships with cricket boards of other countries.