LAHORE: Pakistan’s top cricketers featuring in the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) 15 will place national commitments above franchise cricket, as confirmed by reports on Wednesday.
The decision follows the announcement of Pakistan’s three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, scheduled for January 7, 9 and 11 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium. The series holds crucial importance as preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by Sri Lanka and India from 7 February to 8 March.
Pakistan will also host Australia for a three-match T20I series in late January, adding further significance to players’ availability.
According to reports, the Pakistan Cricket Board has issued Conditional No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for participation in overseas leagues, clearly instructing players to prioritise Pakistan’s international fixtures over the BBL. Permanent members of the national T20 squad are unlikely to receive exemptions from the Sri Lanka series.
NOCs for the BBL have reportedly been granted from 14 December to 28 January, allowing players to feature in the tournament but ensuring they return for national duty as required.
The Pakistani players cleared to play in BBL 15 include:
- Babar Azam
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Shaheen Afridi
- Haris Rauf
- Shadab Khan
- Hasan Ali
The BBL 2025-26 season, running from 14 December to 25 January, will feature 44 matches in prime-time slots.
Several Pakistan stars are set for notable roles in the league:
- Babar Azam will make his BBL debut for Sydney Sixers.
- Shaheen Afridi joins Brisbane Heat as their first overseas platinum pick.
- Mohammad Rizwan will represent Melbourne Renegades.
- Haris Rauf returns to Melbourne Stars.
- Shadab Khan has signed for Sydney Thunder.
- Hasan Ali joins Adelaide Strikers, while Hassan Khan will also feature for the Renegades.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka T20I Series Schedule
- 1st T20I: Wednesday, January 7 – Dambulla
- 2nd T20I: Friday, January 9 – Dambulla
- 3rd T20I: Sunday, January 11 – Dambulla
