Cricket Australia boss addresses Pakistan’s BBL ban

Cricket Australia remains hopeful of resolving a dispute with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over its ban on players participating in overseas T20 leagues, including the Big Bash League (BBL). The PCB recently issued a notice halting all No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for players seeking to play in foreign leagues, causing a major setback for the BBL.

The decision came after a successful draft for the BBL, where high-profile Pakistani players like Babar Azam (Sydney Sixers), Shaheen Shah Afridi (Brisbane Heat), and Mohammad Rizwan (Melbourne Renegades) had secured spots. Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg expressed optimism that an agreement could be reached with the PCB. “We’ve been in contact with our colleagues at the PCB, and we’re hopeful we can find a resolution,” Greenberg said.

The PCB’s notification, issued on September 29, cited the suspension of NOCs for players wishing to participate in leagues and tournaments abroad. The suspension followed Pakistan’s narrow defeat to India in the Asia Cup final, but the reasons for the move remain unclear. It is also uncertain whether any exemptions will be made or how long the ban will last.

Greenberg stressed that Cricket Australia looked forward to welcoming Pakistani players, highlighting their value to the BBL. He also noted the arrival of Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin, who recently signed with Sydney Thunder, as a boost to the league.