PCB Declines NOCs for Babar, Shaheen, and Rizwan for Global T20
The PCB has declined Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi’s requests for NOCs to participate in the Global T20 in Canada this month. This decision aligns with the PCB's workload management policy, considering Pakistan’s packed cricket calendar from August to March next year.
PCB's Workload Management Policy
The Pakistan Cricket Board emphasized that their decision was based on the busy schedule awaiting Pakistan’s cricket team. The period from August 2024 to March 2025 includes nine ICC World Test Championship matches and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The board stated that after consulting with Babar, Rizwan, Shaheen, and the national selection committee, it was best for the players to skip the Global T20 event.
"All three are all-format players and their expertise is expected to be needed in the anticipated eight months during which Pakistan will appear in nine Tests, 14 ODIs, and nine T20Is," the Pakistan Cricket Board stated.
PCB's Decision for Key Players
The Pakistan Cricket Board believes Player roles as all-format players make it essential for them to be in their best mental and physical shape for the upcoming season. This season starts with a two-Test series against Bangladesh.
Earlier, the PCB also declined permission for Naseem Shah to participate in The Hundred based on similar grounds.
Approval for Other Players
While Babar, Rizwan, and Shaheen won’t participate in the Global T20, the PCB has approved NOCs for other players like Asif Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Amir, and Mohammad Nawaz. These players are primarily white-ball cricketers, and Iftikhar and Nawaz hold central contracts.
Pakistan’s Packed Schedule
Pakistan's international cricket schedule in 2024-25 is exceptionally busy. The Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed a five-match T20I and three-match ODI series in New Zealand after the Champions Trophy in February-March. Pakistan will host Bangladesh, England, and West Indies at home while also touring South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.
Additionally, the PCB plans to host a triangular series with New Zealand and South Africa before the Champions Trophy. Despite the busy schedule, the PCB chairman or national selectors have not met formally with senior players. This includes Babar Azam, following the team’s disappointing T20 World Cup campaign.
FAQs
1. Why did the PCB decline NOCs for Babar, Rizwan, and Shaheen?
Pakistan Cricket Board declined their NOCs based on the workload management policy due to Pakistan’s packed cricket calendar from August 2024 to March 2025.
2. Which players received NOCs for the Global T20?
The PCB approved NOCs for Asif Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Amir, and Mohammad Nawaz.
3. What is Pakistan’s upcoming cricket schedule?
Pakistan has a busy schedule, including nine Tests, 14 ODIs, and nine T20Is from August 2024 to March 2025. They will also participate in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
4. Why was Naseem Shah denied permission for The Hundred?
Naseem Shah was denied permission due to the PCB’s workload management policy.
5. What series will Pakistan play after the Champions Trophy?
Pakistan will play five T20Is and three ODIs in New Zealand after the Champions Trophy.
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