Melbourne, 25 October 2025:
Pakistan’s leading cricketers have been cleared to take part in Australia’s Big Bash League after initial uncertainty over the Pakistan Cricket Board’s policy on issuing No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for overseas tournaments.
In late September, PCB chief operating officer Sumair Ahmad Syed had notified players and agents that the board would temporarily stop issuing NOCs for participation in foreign T20 leagues. The decision had raised doubts about the availability of Pakistan stars in the BBL.
However, Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg confirmed on Saturday that the players had received clearance and would join their respective teams as scheduled.
“That came through last week,” Greenberg said. “So they’ll all be playing. We’re really excited because we’ve got some great Pakistan players in the BBL and we’re looking forward to seeing them this summer.”
Among the Pakistan players set to feature are Babar Azam (Sydney Sixers), Shaheen Shah Afridi (Brisbane Heat), Hasan Ali (Adelaide Strikers), Mohammad Rizwan (Melbourne Renegades), Haris Rauf (Melbourne Stars) and Shadab Khan (Sydney Thunder). The BBL season begins Dec. 14 and runs through Jan. 25.
One of the most anticipated matchups will be between Babar and Shaheen, scheduled for Jan. 5 and 18. The Pakistan contingent will also face India’s Ravichandran Ashwin, who recently signed a full-season deal with Sydney Thunder and will play alongside Shadab Khan.
Ashwin’s arrival marks a milestone for the BBL, sparking discussion about whether more Indian players nearing the end of their international careers might pursue similar opportunities abroad.
“Short to medium term, I think it’s realistic over time,” Greenberg said about the possibility of more Indian players joining the league. “Ashwin’s signing is a really important moment for the BBL and it highlights the value of having Indian players involved. Some of that will depend on whether we bring private investment into the BBL, which is an ongoing discussion.”
Cricket Australia is currently exploring private investment options for the BBL, with Greenberg and chair Mike Baird hopeful of progress by year’s end. The move is aimed at boosting financial competitiveness and retaining top domestic talent amid growing global franchise opportunities.
“We should aspire to ensure the best players, both Australian and international, can play in the BBL,” Greenberg said. “That requires resources, because players now have options worldwide. Private capital could help us stay competitive on the global stage.”
He acknowledged that while senior players such as Pat Cummins and Travis Head had recently turned down lucrative offers from IPL-linked franchises, the long-term concern lies with the next generation of Australian cricketers.
“Every player I talk to says their No. 1 priority is to play for their country,” Greenberg said. “But the next generation is what I’m focused on. We need to ensure they stay within Australian cricket, earn well, and still dream of representing their country.”
Greenberg’s comments came as CA launched its new community initiative, the Smash Series — a fast-paced, six-a-side format designed to be completed in 60 minutes, aimed at introducing more people to the game.
