PCB sends strong message to Pakistan players, advises 'extra caution' or else 'Strict Action'

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has cautioned its players not to participate in any unsanctioned leagues, with a statement on Sunday (November 10).

Pakistani players have been participating in various T20 leagues around the world, but many of these leagues require No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to officially allow participation.

The PCB has been enforcing a policy that restricts centrally and domestically contracted players to only participate in a maximum of two foreign T20 leagues per year, besides the Pakistan Super League (PSL). And now the apex body of Pakistan cricket has given a clear message to players on participation in the local leagues, which are often not approved.

There are many unsanctioned

or disapproved T20 leagues where Pakistani players have participated or attempted to participate, but it won't be tolerated anymore.

"The PCB advises all the players registered with its club, associated and affiliated with its regional/district cricket associations and departmental cricket teams to not take part in unsanctioned and unapproved cricket leagues/tournaments/matches across the country," a statement from PCB read.

"All players are also asked to take extra caution if approached by such entities. In case of non-compliance with these directives, the PCB holds the right to take action against the players involved," it added.

The PCB had recently suspended all NOCs for players intending to participate in overseas T20 leagues indefinitely in an effort to prioritize national cricket and manage player workload and fitness. After their debacle in the T20 World Cup last year and then subsequent defeat in Asia Cup, Babar Azam and co. have to abide by the law to avoid sanctions.

Pakistan will take on Sri Lanka in an ODI series in their upcoming assignment, followed by a T20 Tri-series with Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. Both series will be played on their home soil, starting from November 11.