The Pakistan Cricket Board has suspended all No Objection Certificates, preventing its centrally contracted players from featuring in foreign T20 leagues.
Officials confirmed the directive on Tuesday, a day after Pakistan suffered a narrow defeat to India in the Asia Cup 2025 final held in Dubai.
The notification was issued by PCB Chief Operating Officer Syed Sameer Ahmed, who asked players to prioritise domestic competitions over international franchise commitments.
The suspension directly impacts Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, and Faheem Ashraf, who had been cleared to play in Australia Big Bash League.
India claimed their third consecutive Asia Cup crown by chasing Pakistan target in a gripping last-over clash, sealing a five-wicket triumph.
Kuldeep Yadav starred with four wickets for 30, while Tilak Verma unbeaten 69 and Shivam Dube rapid 33 powered India to their ninth title.
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The defeat extended India winning streak against Pakistan to eight consecutive games, intensifying pressure on PCB to reassess priorities in cricket governance.
Meanwhile, the cricket authority has named the national squad for the two-Test home series against South Africa, retaining Shan Masood as captain.
Opener Imam-ul-Haq has returned to the Test side, while young batter Saim Ayub has been dropped after a string of inconsistent performances.
Pakistan have reinforced their spin attack with Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, Abrar Ahmed, Faisal Akram and mystery spinner Asif Afridi joining the squad.
In contrast, the pace department has seen major changes, with young Naseem Shah and experienced Mir Hamza both omitted from the Test squad.