- PCB denies NOC requests from Babar Azam.
- Decision made in consultation with players.
- PCB prioritizes workload management for key players.
The PCB received NOC requests from Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi, among other players.
Given Pakistan’s busy cricket schedule from August 2024 to March 2025—which includes nine ICC World Test Championship matches and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025—the board has decided to decline their requests.
This decision was made in consultation with the players and the national selection committee.
Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi are key all-format cricketers, expected to be heavily involved in Pakistan’s upcoming commitments, including nine Tests, 14 ODIs, and nine T20Is.
The PCB’s workload management policy aims to ensure that these players remain in optimal mental and physical condition for the season, starting with the two-Test series against Bangladesh.
Previously, the PCB had also declined a similar request from Naseem Shah for participation in The Hundred, citing the same reasons.
However, the PCB has approved NOCs for Asif Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Amir, and Mohammad Nawaz.
These players primarily participate in white-ball cricket, with Iftikhar and Nawaz being centrally contracted.
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