PCB refuses to give Naseem Shah NOC for The Hundred 2024

Staff Report

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has refused to grant Naseem Shah a No Objection Certificate (NOC), preventing him from participating in The Hundred league set to begin in the third week of July. This decision stems from concerns about Shah’s ongoing fitness issues. The PCB aims to protect the young fast bowler from potential injuries and manage his workload effectively. Pakistan’s cricket schedule for the upcoming season is packed, and the board is keen to ensure Naseem’s fitness for national commitments. Naseem Shah had secured a lucrative contract with Birmingham Phoenix, falling into the £125,000 category. His withdrawal from the tournament will result in a financial loss of over Rs44 million Pakistan is preparing for a two-match Test series against Bangladesh in August, and the PCB’s decision reflects their priority on maintaining player fitness for these crucial fixtures. The Hundred, now in its fourth season, is a professional 100-ball cricket tournament featuring eight men’s and women’s teams from major cities across England and Wales.