In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to allow national players to participate in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL). According to reliable sources, both the cricketers and Cricket Australia have been informed that those who have already received No Objection Certificates (NOCs) are now cleared to join their respective BBL franchises.
This marks a reversal of PCB’s earlier stance when the board announced it would temporarily hold all NOCs for foreign leagues to prioritize player workload management and domestic commitments.
Players Cleared to Feature in the Big Bash
A total of seven top Pakistani players have existing contracts with Big Bash League teams. Among them are some of Pakistan’s biggest stars, including:
- Babar Azam
- Shaheen Afridi
- Haris Rauf
- Shadab Khan
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Hasan Ali
- Hassan Khan
The PCB reportedly made this decision out of respect for pre-signed contracts and valid NOCs that were issued prior to the earlier suspension. This means all players with existing agreements will be allowed to honor their commitments for the upcoming BBL season.
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Why PCB Changed Its Mind
According to inside reports, the PCB’s policy shift was influenced by the players’ existing contractual obligations and international goodwill. The board recognized that pulling players out after official agreements were made could damage Pakistan’s reputation in global cricket circles and affect future opportunities for local talent.
Previously, the PCB had announced that future NOCs would be granted strictly based on player performance in both international and domestic cricket. This was intended to ensure that national duty remains the top priority for all contracted players.
BBL Teams Eager to Welcome Pakistani Stars
Big Bash League franchises have reportedly been eagerly waiting for Pakistani players to join their squads. Some teams have even created special fan zones named after Pakistani cricketers, highlighting their growing global fan following.
Pakistani players have a strong history in the BBL, with stars like Haris Rauf and Shadab Khan earning praise for their match-winning performances in past seasons. Their inclusion not only strengthens the teams but also boosts viewership and fan engagement across both Australia and Pakistan.
A Win-Win for Players and the PCB
This decision appears to be a win-win situation for all parties involved. Pakistani players get to maintain their international exposure and income opportunities, while the PCB ensures that Pakistan’s representation remains strong on global platforms like the Big Bash League.
As the new BBL season approaches, fans are excited to see their favorite Pakistani stars back in action on Australian soil, adding more excitement to one of the world’s most competitive T20 leagues.
