PCB’s NOC suspension sparks confusion among leagues

The Pakistan Cricket Board temporarily stopped issuing No Objection Certificates even to retired cricketers, causing confusion and forcing organizers of U.S. and Canadian leagues to bar several Pakistani players from participating. The matter was eventually resolved after the intervention of influential PCB official Wahab Riaz. According to details, on September 29, PCB Chief Operating Officer Sameer Ahmed Syed issued a notification stating: “With the approval of the PCB Chairman, all NOCs issued to players for participation in leagues and other foreign tournaments are suspended until further notice.” A copy of this notification was also sent to all league organizers. However, due to the unclear wording of the directive, several leagues in the U.S. stopped Pakistani players from participating, asking them to submit valid NOCs. Among those affected were Sohail Tanvir (Atlanta Kings), Wahab Riaz (Chicago Cricket Club), and Rumman Raees (Los Angeles Waves). Meanwhile, the Canada T10 League (Super60), scheduled to begin on October 8 in Vancouver, also asked Pakistani players to obtain NOCs. Those included Saeed Ajmal (Mississauga Masters) and Shoaib Malik (White Rock Warriors). Sources revealed that the PCB’s notification did not specify whether the suspension applied to both current and retired players or only to active cricketers, leading to confusion among players and organizers alike. After his tenure as chief selector ended, Wahab Riaz’s current role within the board remains unclear, but he continues to be involved in PCB affairs, often represents the board in various capacities, and plays in leagues whenever he gets an opportunity. According to sources, Wahab played a key role in resolving the recent NOC issue. It is also worth mentioning that during the Asia Cup, Wahab was seen performing commentary duties for a well-known international cricket website.

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