Pakistan dealt a major setback as England board denies permission for players to participate in key tournament, but grants permission for IPL participation.

New Delhi: The Pakistan Cricket Board has been facing multiple setbacks recently, including the loss of hosting rights for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Adding to their woes, the England Cricket Board (ECB) has now banned players from participating in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) during the domestic season of English cricket. This latest blow has further hindered the PCB's plans and strategies for the upcoming cricketing events.

The ECB’s new policy has restricted its players from playing in the Pakistan Super League, Sri Lanka Premier League, and several other global leagues during the English summer months. This policy aims to safeguard the reputation, quality, and integrity of England’s domestic cricket, including the Vitality Blast, The Hundred, and the County Championship.

The policy also prohibits players from competing in two overlapping leagues. Previously, players could join another event after their teams were eliminated from the first, but this will no longer be allowed.

What permission do the cricketers have?

The guidelines, however, permit white-ball-only contracts, such as Saqib Mahmood’s, allowing players to compete in the PSL and similar leagues. However, players with contracts that include first-class cricket will not receive the NoC needed to play in such leagues. Additionally, permission to miss any domestic white-ball games for participation in overseas tournaments will not be granted, according to The Telegraph.

“This policy gives clarity to players and professional counties around our approach to issuing No Objection Certificates. It will enable us to strike the right balance between supporting players who want to take up opportunities to earn and gain experience, while also protecting the integrity of cricket globally,” Richard Gould, ECB chief executive, said on the policy.

T20 and T20 leagues have experienced rapid growth worldwide in recent years, with nearly every major cricketing nation now hosting its own league. Additionally, several 10-over format leagues have emerged in the Middle East.

Reports indicate that 74 England-qualified players participated in franchise tournaments globally last year. However, the ECB is now looking to shift focus towards increasing participation in domestic cricket and its own tournaments.

It’s important to note that there is one exception to this rule: English players are still permitted to take part in the Indian Premier League, held annually in April-May.