(Image Source: Reuters)
[Saba Sports News] Cricket enthusiasts are in for an exciting few months, with a mix of international series and franchise leagues unfolding. The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) and International League T20 (ILT20) are set to commence on January 19, featuring top global cricketing talents.
There had been some uncertainty regarding the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)’s issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for its players to join these lucrative leagues. Recently recovered from injuries, the fast-bowling trio of Naseem Shah, Ihsanullah, and Mohammad Hasnain, along with all-rounder Shadab Khan, sought NOCs to play in the BPL. Mohammad Hafeez, Pakistan’s team director, had earlier urged the PCB to have these players feature in at least one match in Karachi’s ongoing President Trophy. Consequently, PCB initially requested their participation in this first-class competition.
Despite the NOC announcement by PCB, Naseem, Ihsanullah, Hasnain, and Shadab were not listed among those approved for the BPL. Naseem had missed several series, including the ODI World Cup, due to a shoulder injury and subsequent surgery. Both Hasnain and Ihsanullah were sidelined with injuries after representing Pakistan in early 2023, while Shadab missed tours due to an ankle injury sustained last year.
Meanwhile, PCB granted NOCs to prominent players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Fakhar Zaman, and Haris Rauf for participation in the ILT20 and BPL. These players are also part of Pakistan’s squad in the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand.