Australia's Cricket Board Affirms Schedule for Tour in Pakistan During the Following Year
Australia Set to Deepen Cricket Ties with Pakistan
In a recent interview, Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Todd Greenberg has declared Australia's intent to foster stronger cricketing bonds with Pakistan, notably through bilateral tours and increased participation of Pakistani players in the Big Bash League (BBL).
Greenberg, discussing with journos, confirmed Australian plans for a white-ball tour to Pakistan next year, expressing optimism about the tour's potential, given the warm reception witnessed during the 2022 visit.
He also broached the concerns surrounding Pakistani players participating in the BBL due to NOC (No Objection Certificate) obstacles from the PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board). However, Greenberg assured efforts are underway to tackle this issue, hoping for a breakthrough in the upcoming BBL season.
"We're looking to boost Pakistani representation in the BBL," he shared. "Pakistani cricketers boast a massive fanbase here in Australia, especially among our local Pakistani community."
Greenberg highlighted the importance of a diverse, global roster for a world-class tournament. "Our goal is to invite the best players to the BBL, regardless of their origin," he declared. "The inclusion of Pakistani stars would be a boon for the league."
As Pakistani cricket carves out a significant presence globally, Australia seeks to capitalize on these connections, aiming to invigorate the BBL and developments in cricket diplomacy.
Interestingly, conversations revolving around NOCs have taken a positive turn with the PCB recently issuing NOCs to star players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi for the upcoming BBL in 2025. Moreover, emerging players like Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Haris Rauf, and Shadab Khan have expressed interest in joining the BBL through the draft.
Despite obstacles, both Cricket Australia and the PCB seem committed to expanding Pakistani player involvement in the BBL, promising an exciting future for cricket enthusiasts on both sides.
- Enhancing the global appeal of the Big Bash League (BBL), Greenberg aspired to increase Pakistani representation, acknowledging the substantial fanbase of Pakistani cricketers in Australia.
- The environment of sports diplomacy between Australia and Pakistan could be further enriched as the BBL season approaches, with the emergence of Pakistani stars like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi demonstrating their interest in joining the league.
