Usama Mir has criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for inconsistent handling of No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) after missing the 2024 T20 Blast despite being out of the national squad.
Mir, who had played a successful season for Worcestershire in 2023, was due to return in 2024 but was replaced after the PCB denied his NOC request. Speaking on a local sports platform, the leg-spinner said he was disheartened to see other players given more lenient treatment.
He noted that his contract included a provision for a special NOC when no international or domestic cricket was scheduled. However, even though he wasn’t part of the national setup and no matches were being played, the NOC was still refused.
Mir said he had raised the issue with officials and was told the chairman had changed—an explanation he found inadequate. He questioned whether leadership changes at the PCB should impact already signed contracts.
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The PCB later clarified that under the terms of Mir’s central contract, he was only allowed to play in two T20 leagues outside the PSL. Since he had already featured in the Hundred and the BBL, his request for a third NOC was declined.
Mir, however, argued that the clause had been applied retroactively, since he hadn’t signed the contract when he played in the Hundred. He also highlighted that his BBL stint was cut short as he was recalled for national duty.
He expressed disappointment, saying cricketers should not be denied playing opportunities without clear and fair reasons, especially when not on national duty.