In the past few days, it has been frequently reported on the prevailing uncertainty for Pakistani cricketers, raising the question of whether the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) would grant a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for their participation in different leagues.
Players who had lost series in Australia and New Zealand had departed for Pakistan and various leagues. Sources had revealed that the team management was dissatisfied with the players’ attitude, asserting that their focus on NOCs and other matters had impacted their performance in New Zealand.
Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi had consistently advised players to concentrate on their on-field performances, emphasizing that this would automatically enhance their bank balances, creating more earning opportunities.
According to sources, team Director Mohammad Hafeez was also dissatisfied with the then-current state of affairs. His own future seemed uncertain as financial payments had been halted since December 15. Before this, he had been receiving a daily stipend of $300. Former head of the management committee Zaka Ashraf had attempted to secure a three-year contract for Hafeez, but government approval had not been obtained.
It is anticipated that Hafeez may make a return to television as an analyst in the next series. Regarding Hafeez’s departure, sources mentioned that his strict approach did not sit well with the players, and he is expected to address these concerns in a media conference scheduled for Friday.
