The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made a significant announcement, granting No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to 12 of its players for their participation in various T20 leagues and the County Championship. This strategic move by the PCB allows Pakistani cricketers to showcase their talent on international platforms and gain invaluable experience.
One notable participant is Mohammad Amir, who is set to play for Derbyshire in the County Championship from July 4 to 20. Amir’s participation stands out as he is the sole Pakistani cricketer in this specific championship. The rest of the players are slated to participate in different T20 leagues, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing the skill set of its players through diverse playing conditions and high-level competition.
The Major League Cricket (MLC) is another key tournament where Pakistani players will be seen in action. Scheduled to run from July 5 to July 28, this league will feature Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, and Zaman Khan. These players are expected to bring their unique flair to the tournament, adding a competitive edge and showcasing Pakistan’s cricketing prowess on an international stage.
Interestingly, there is an absence of Imad Wasim’s name from the PCB’s official list. Wasim, who had resumed international play for the recently concluded T20 World Cup, was expected to play for the Seattle Orcas. The reason behind his exclusion from the NOC list remains unclear. Meanwhile, Amir’s inclusion is also a topic of curiosity, given his previous retirement from international cricket and subsequent return.
The Lanka Premier League (LPL), now in its fifth edition, commenced on July 1. Four Pakistani cricketers have been confirmed to participate: Mohammad Haris, Shadab Khan, Salman Ali Agha, and Mohammad Hasnain.
. Notably, Hasnain is not centrally contracted, which highlights PCB’s support for players beyond their primary roster. These players are anticipated to make significant contributions to their respective teams, enriching the tournament with their dynamic play styles.
Moreover, two Pakistani players who are currently not in the main schemes of the national team, Sharjeel Khan and Sohaib Maqsood, have been authorized to partake in the World Championship of Legends. This event mainly features retired players, including international stars like Yuvraj Singh and Chris Gayle. Their involvement provides a unique opportunity for these cricketers to continue their engagement with the sport and entertain cricket fans worldwide.
Another major highlight is Fakhar Zaman receiving the NOC to play in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), scheduled from August 29 to October 6. Zaman will represent the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, a new franchise in the league. This move is expected to bolster the team’s lineup and provide Zaman with a valuable platform to further hone his skills.
In addition to Zaman, Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir are also scheduled to play for the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons. However, similar to the Major League Cricket, there is no official mention of their NOCs, leaving fans and analysts speculating about the underlying reasons.
The PCB’s decision to facilitate these opportunities exemplifies their progressive approach, allowing centrally contracted players to participate in up to two T20 leagues outside the Pakistan Super League (PSL). This policy ensures that players remain match-fit and exposed to various playing conditions, which is essential for their growth and adaptability.
Here is the complete list of Pakistani players who have received NOCs from the PCB:
– Abrar Ahmed – Major League Cricket – July 4 to 28
– Fakhar Zaman – Caribbean Premier League – August 29 to October 6
– Haris Rauf – Major League Cricket – July 5 to 28
– Mohammad Amir – County Cricket – July 4 to 20
– Mohammad Haris – Lanka Premier League – July 1 to 21
– Mohammad Hasnain – Lanka Premier League – July 1 to 21 (non-centrally contracted)
– Salman Ali Agha – Lanka Premier League – July 1 to 21
– Shadab Khan – Lanka Premier League – July 1 to 21
– Sharjeel Khan – World Championship of Legends – July 3 to 13
– Sohaib Maqsood – World Championship of Legends – July 3 to 13
– Usama Mir – The Hundred – July 23 to August 20
– Zaman Khan – Major League Cricket – July 4 to 28
As these players gear up to compete globally, they carry the hope and expectations of Pakistan cricket fans, eager to see their stars shine and represent their country with distinction on the international stage.
