SRINAGAR: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has suspended the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for national players seeking participation in overseas Twenty20 leagues, following the team’s disappointing exit from the Asia Cup, officials confirmed on Thursday as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
The move, widely seen as a disciplinary measure, comes after Pakistan failed to beat India during the Asia Cup final, raising concerns over player performance and commitment. The PCB has stated that players will not be allowed to feature in foreign T20 tournaments until further notice, as the board seeks to prioritise domestic commitments and international preparations.
According to senior PCB officials, the decision aims to ensure that contracted cricketers focus on national duty and upcoming bilateral series rather than prioritising lucrative league opportunities abroad. The suspension of NOCs is expected to impact several players who had secured contracts in franchise leagues across the UAE, Caribbean, and Bangladesh.
“The players must realign their focus towards Pakistan cricket,” a PCB official said, adding that the board would conduct a performance review before considering fresh NOC requests.
The development has sparked debate within cricketing circles, with some analysts arguing that exposure to competitive leagues benefits Pakistani players, while others back the PCB’s stance on prioritising national obligations in the wake of recent defeats from arch rivals India.
The Asia Cup setback has intensified scrutiny on both the players and management ahead of Pakistan’s forthcoming international fixtures, including the ICC Champions Trophy next year.
The PCB has so far not specified when or if the suspension will be lifted.
