The inaugural season of ILT20, a T20 league organized by the Emirates Cricket Board, was held from January 13 to February 12. However, Pakistani players were not included in the tournament lineup.
Despite ILT20 organizers offering Pakistani cricketers Muhammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, and Shaheen Shah Afridi captaincy and lucrative contracts worth up to USD 900,000, they were unable to participate due to the Pakistan Cricket Board’s refusal to grant them a No-Objection Certificate (NOC).
Franchises approached Fakhar Zaman and Mohammad Hasnain, in addition to the aforementioned trio, for the inaugural season of ILT20, but their participation was hindered due to the PCB’s denial of No-Objection Certificates (NOCs).
Despite being selected by the Desert Vipers, Pakistani cricketer Azam Khan was unable to participate in ILT20 as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) denied him a No-Objection Certificate (NOC).
ECB and Ramiz Raja’s Thinking
Emirates Cricket Board informed Pakistani cricketers they could participate in the league only during their available time away from PSL and national duties.
Despite the Emirates Cricket Board’s condition that Pakistani players could play ILT20 during their free time, the PCB denied permission. Ramiz Raja, the then-PCB Chairman, even requested compensation from the ECB for releasing Pakistani players for the league.
Also, Read: Mickey Arthur wants the team to keep “Personal Milestones” away
Current PCB Chairman’s Perspective: Insights on Pakistani Cricketers’ Participation in ILT20
During a recent PSL governing council meeting, Najam Sethi, the current PCB chief, expressed a more lenient stance towards Pakistani cricketers joining ILT20. Recognizing the rights of Pakistani cricketers and the potential formation of an association, Sethi emphasized the need for negotiation and highlighted the positive relationship between PCB and the UAE.
Sethi proposed starting the next PSL season in Dubai to boost its international appeal, aiming to attract international players while allowing Pakistani players to participate in ILT20. However, PSL franchise owners voiced concerns about releasing Pakistani cricketers and the potential impact on the PSL.
If the current administration remains for the next three years, sources indicate a strong possibility of Pakistani cricketers featuring prominently in ILT20. Make Sure to leave a comment and share your mind on the situation.
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