The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to restrict No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for national cricketers playing in all three formats, aiming to protect them from injuries and fatigue.

This policy, formulated during a meeting between PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, head coaches, and the International Department, is likely to prevent all-format players from participating in leagues this year. The decision stems from a packed schedule for Pakistan cricket, with non-stop matches scheduled until May next year.

The PCB is further tightening its NOC policy due to the continuous cricket calendar, prioritizing the well-being of all-format players by minimizing the risk of fatigue and injuries.

The PCB’s primary focus is on player injury management and workload control for a successful season. This is the rationale behind the decision to restrict NOCs.

Pakistan is scheduled to play nine Tests, 14 ODIs, and nine T20 matches from the upcoming Bangladesh series to the 2025 Champions Trophy.

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Following this policy, Naseem Shah was denied an NOC for The Hundred. Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan have contracts for the Global T20, which is yet to receive approval from the ICC.

The NOCs for players will be considered after the ICC’s approval. The Global T20 league is scheduled to take place in Canada from July 25th to August 11th. The PCB’s policy permits players to participate in two foreign leagues alongside the PSL.