The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has turned down the No Objection Certificate (NOC) requests from star players Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi for the upcoming Global T20 Canada. The decision comes amid a packed international schedule for Pakistan cricket.
The PCB cited the busy cricket calendar between August 2024 and March 2025, which includes nine ICC World Test Championship matches and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The board emphasized the need for these players to remain focused and in peak physical condition for the upcoming series.
The Global T20 Canada, scheduled from July 25 to August 11, coincides with Pakistan’s international commitments, including a tour of Bangladesh starting August 21. Following this, Pakistan will face England, Australia, and other teams in a series of important fixtures.
In contrast, players such as Asif Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Amir, and Mohammad Nawaz have been granted NOCs. These players are primarily involved in white-ball formats, and the PCB’s decision reflects its focus on managing workload and maintaining player readiness for key international matches.