Haris Rauf, the Pakistani fast bowler set to make his mark in the BBL 2023-24, is likely to encounter a delay in obtaining his No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), potentially causing him to miss the initial matches of the league. ESPNcricinfo reports suggest that Rauf’s NOC is expected to be postponed until at least December 11, well after the BBL kicks off on December 7.
The delay in issuing Haris Rauf’s NOC is reportedly linked to his recent decision to decline participation in Pakistan’s Test series in Australia. Chief selector Wahab Riaz expressed dissatisfaction with Rauf’s decision, creating a standoff between the player and the cricket board. Wahab, who wields influence over NOC issuances, has not indicated a swift resolution to the matter.
National T20 Cup Involvement
The official reason cited for the NOC delay is Haris Rauf’s expected participation in the National T20 Cup in Pakistan, scheduled to run until December 10. The PCB intends for Rauf to be part of the entire tournament, contributing to the delay in granting the NOC required for his BBL stint.
Haris Rauf’s potential absence from the initial matches of the BBL poses challenges for the league, particularly affecting the Melbourne Stars, who signed Rauf as a marquee player. The delay may disrupt marketing strategies that heavily relied on Rauf’s participation as a key attraction for the South Asian audience. Melbourne Stars introduced special memberships and seating zones dedicated to Rauf, emphasizing his role in the league.
Broader Concerns for Centrally Contracted Players
The NOC delay raises broader concerns for Pakistan’s centrally contracted players, as the situation reflects ongoing negotiations between the PCB and players regarding participation in foreign leagues. Disagreements over the number of permitted leagues and the issuance of NOCs have been significant factors in the negotiations, impacting players’ freedom to participate in global T20 competitions.
The BBL 2023-24 is scheduled to run from December 7, 2023, to January 24, 2024. Haris Rauf’s potential delayed debut may not only affect the Melbourne Stars but also draw attention to the broader challenges faced by players navigating contractual agreements, NOC issuances, and international commitments.
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