Pakistan’s white-ball captain Babar Azam and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan, along with several other players, were set to participate in the Global T20 (GT20) Canada League. However, they are yet to receive the necessary No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Initially, it was reported that the PCB withheld the NOCs to manage the players’ workload and ensure they remained fresh for upcoming international fixtures. But the real issue appears to be more complex.
The Real Reason
The fourth edition of the Global T20 Canada League is slated to run from July 25 to August 11. Despite this, the event has not yet received the green light from the International Cricket Council (ICC), with a decision expected soon.
Sources suggest that the delay is partly due to the organizers not having paid their dues to Cricket Canada. Approval will only be granted once these financial issues are resolved.
Additionally, there have been rumours of suspicious activities involving a team owner from India. This situation is reportedly under investigation, with more details likely to emerge in the coming days. The ICC has maintained its policy of not commenting on ongoing investigations.
Pakistani Stars in Limbo
Several Pakistani stars have already been named in teams for the GT20. Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Nawaz have joined the Toronto Nationals, while the Vancouver Knights have appointed Mohammad Rizwan as captain. Babar Azam and Mohammad Amir are also part of the Vancouver Knights squad.
Despite these signings, the PCB has not yet issued the necessary NOCs for the players to participate in the tournament. The PCB has cited the ICC’s pending approval of the event as the primary reason for the delay.
Furthermore, the PCB recently announced that they are working on a policy to limit players’ participation in various leagues to better manage their workload. The details of this new policy have yet to be fully disclosed.
This situation leaves the participation of some of Pakistan’s top players in the GT20 Canada League hanging in the balance. Fans and players alike are eagerly awaiting the ICC’s decision and further clarification from the PCB.
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