Pakistani cricketers are exploring alternative options as they face difficulties in obtaining No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for franchise leagues from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
According to sources, during the T20I series in New Zealand, the players confronted the PCB over the NOC issue, only to be informed that the obstructions were at the behest of team director Mohammad Hafeez.
When the players demanded an explanation from Hafeez, he attributed the decision to the board. At that point, some players had already begun discussions about early retirement or considered moving to free agency. Current discussions during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) also revolve around the potential rejection of future central contracts.
Also read: Mohammad Hafeez shown the door by the PCB
In addition, sources revealed widespread discontent among the players over the suspension of Haris Rauf’s central contract. He argues that forcing a player who has been absent from red-ball cricket for years into Test cricket without an ongoing series for Pakistan lacks logical justification. The decision, made just two days before the start of the PSL, raised eyebrows.
Some fingers are pointing at chief selector Wahab Riaz over the perceived punishment and sources suggest that the players are considering a meeting with new PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi to address their concerns.
