PCB refuses NOCs for Afghanistan Premier League amid diplomatic tensions; Wasim Akram declines mentorship role
By Nawaz Gohar ; The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided against issuing No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to national cricketers intending to participate in the upcoming Afghanistan Premier League (APL), citing ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two neighboring nations.
According to board sources, more than 30 Pakistani players had registered for the APL draft. However, the PCB's directive effectively bars all active players under its jurisdiction from entering the tournament. A PCB spokesperson confirmed the stance to Cricbuzz, stating: "I don't think NOCs will be issued to Pakistani players for the APL."
The policy shift has also impacted non-playing personnel. Legendary former fast bowler Wasim Akram was approached by the APL organizers to take up a high-profile mentorship role during the tournament. Akram formally declined the offer, confirming he would align with and respect the PCB’s policy.
Despite the sweeping ban on PCB-contracted and registered players, one prominent Pakistani-origin cricketer will still feature in the competition. Former international pacer Mohammad Amir has been drafted by the Kandahar Knights (Kandahar Warriors) in the top-tier Platinum category.
Amir is exempt from the PCB's administrative restrictions because he registered for the draft using his British citizenship, eliminating the need for a Pakistani board clearance.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) is relaunching its flagship T20 franchise competition for the first time since its inaugural 2018 edition. The revamped league structure includes:
Team Composition: 5 franchise teams, each fielding a squad of 12 Afghan players alongside 6 to 7 international players.
Player Pool: Over 1,500 global players initially applied for the draft, which was subsequently trimmed to a 462-player shortlist. With the PCB maintaining a strict embargo on its players, the draft prospects for Pakistani domestic and international talent in the APL have effectively been shut down.
