Enhanced Ties Between PCB and CA Facilitate Increased Pakistani Player Participation in BBL 15

LAHORE: Recent discussions between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Cricket Australia (CA) are centered on arranging series for A teams, U19 squads, and women’s teams, sources revealed on Wednesday.

Sources indicate that CA’s reestablished confidence in Pakistan has significantly bolstered the potential for launching future developmental series. Discussions between the two boards are progressing positively.

The PCB’s high-performance center has designated Australia as a key collaborator for bilateral engagements, aiming to foster cricket development.

Presently, conversations are ongoing regarding potential tours for A teams, U19 teams, and women’s teams between the two nations.

The strengthened rapport between the PCB and CA has already demonstrated favorable outcomes. The increased presence of Pakistani athletes in the Big Bash League (BBL) this season is a prime example.

Unlike previous years, where athletes frequently encountered delays in acquiring No Objection Certificates (NOCs), this year saw NOCs issued prior to the draft. This allowed players to partake without facing last-minute complications.

In addition to team tours, the PCB is also keen on initiating academy exchange initiatives to further cultivate young talent.

Aqib Javed, PCB’s Director of High Performance, is investigating avenues for player exposure, not only in Australia and England but also in other cricketing countries.

According to sources, he believes that solid international connections are crucial to facilitating opportunities for Pakistani players to gain experience and grow abroad.

With renewed mutual trust, a greater number of Australian players are anticipated to be available for upcoming editions of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Further solidifying cooperation, CA’s CEO recently affirmed Australia’s tour of Pakistan in the coming year, underscoring the dedication to bilateral cricketing relations.

It is worth noting that Pakistan cricket will resume activities following a short recess with a tour of Bangladesh at the close of July. A T20I series is planned, although the schedule is yet to be formally announced. Following the Bangladesh tour, the Green Shirts will proceed to the West Indies for a limited-overs series featuring three T20Is and three ODIs, commencing on August 1.