Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has criticised the handling of No Objection Certificates for national cricketers, claiming that players were given only verbal assurances instead of official approvals to feature in the upcoming Big Bash League and other overseas tournaments.
Seven Pakistan players — Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Rizwan, Hasan Ali and Hassan Khan — are lined up to play in BBL 15, while eight others, including Asif Ali, Akif Javed, Zaman Khan, Usman Tariq, Ali Raza, Salman Irshad, Mir Hamza and Shahnawaz Dahani, are set to participate in the Abu Dhabi T10 League from November 18 to 30.
Latif voiced his concerns on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), warning that the uncertainty around NOCs could damage both careers and Pakistan’s cricketing relations.
“After suspension, NOC is verbally promised to players, Big Bash franchises and other leagues, but nothing is in writing yet. If the aim is not to further isolate Pakistan players in T20 cricket, officials must act with responsibility,” Latif wrote.
He also criticised what he described as inconsistent decision-making.
“Pulling players back to satisfy own egos after granting NOCs damages careers, trust with franchises, and ties with other boards. PSL will feel the ripple effects too,” he added.
Big Bash NOC Controversy
— Rashid Latif | 🇵🇰 (@iRashidLatif68) October 24, 2025
After suspension, NOC is verbally promised to players, Big Bash franchises and other leagues, but nothing is in writing yet. If the aim is not to further isolate Pakistan players in T20 cricket, officials must act with responsibility. Pulling players… pic.twitter.com/uDR1KIO7HZ
The debate comes weeks after the PCB suspended all NOCs for foreign leagues.
READ: Pakistan cricketers allowed to take part in BBL 15 after PCB approval
In a notification issued on September 29, PCB COO Sumair Ahmad Syed stated that all approvals for players to participate in overseas events were being put on hold “until further orders.” No official explanation was given.
However, sources have now confirmed that the PCB has cleared players who already possess valid NOCs to take part in the upcoming BBL.
Cricket Australia and the relevant franchises have also been informed of the decision.
The 15th edition of the Big Bash League will run from December 14 to January 25, 2026, featuring 44 matches in prime-time slots.
The opening game between the Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers will mark Babar Azam’s debut in the tournament.
Pakistani players are set to feature prominently this season, with Shaheen Afridi joining Brisbane Heat as the first overseas platinum pick, Rizwan representing Melbourne Renegades, Haris Rauf returning to Melbourne Stars, Shadab Khan signing with Sydney Thunder, Hasan Ali joining Adelaide Strikers, and Hassan Khan also part of the Renegades squad.
Franchises are reportedly preparing special fan activities to welcome the Pakistani stars, including dedicated cheering sections at home venues.
