Pakistan players in Big Bash League 2025 officially cleared, confirms Cricket Australia CEO

Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg has confirmed that Pakistan players in Big Bash League 2025 have been officially cleared to participate, putting an end to recent uncertainty surrounding their availability.

“They’ve all been cleared to play, which we’re really excited about,” Greenberg said. “We’ve got some great Pakistan players in the BBL and we’re looking forward to seeing them here this summer.”

The confirmation comes weeks after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) temporarily suspended No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for players taking part in overseas leagues. The restriction, announced in late September by PCB’s Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmad Syed, had raised concerns over the participation of Pakistani cricketers in the BBL.

Greenberg confirmed that the matter was resolved last week, clearing the way for Pakistan’s top players to feature in the tournament.

Among the confirmed names are Babar Azam (Sydney Sixers), Shaheen Shah Afridi (Brisbane Heat), Hasan Ali (Adelaide Strikers), Mohammad Rizwan (Melbourne Renegades), Haris Rauf (Melbourne Stars), and Shadab Khan (Sydney Thunder).

The BBL 2025 season is set to run from December 14 to January 25, with fans already looking forward to blockbuster matchups, including Babar vs Shaheen on January 5 and January 18.

This season will also see a major new face, India’s Ravichandran Ashwin, who joined Sydney Thunder after going unsold in the ILT20 auction. His signing is being hailed as a groundbreaking moment for the league.

Commenting on the potential for more Indian players joining in the future, Greenberg said,

“Short, medium term I think it is realistic over time. We will keep the dialogue open. I think that Ravichandran Ashwin's coming is a really important moment for the BBL and it will highlight the strength of bringing Indian players into the league.”

He also discussed Cricket Australia’s consideration of private investment in the BBL, suggesting that it could help the league attract top global talent.

“We should have aspirations to make sure the very best players, both here in Australia and globally, can play in the BBL. That costs money because players have leverage and opportunity to play all over the world,” Greenberg said.

Addressing the growing concern about player retention amid lucrative T20 leagues, he added,

“Every player I talk to, priority A is to play for their country… but the next generation is really what I’m focused on. We’ve got to make sure we find ways for them to stay in Australian cricket.”

Greenberg made these remarks as Cricket Australia also launched its new six-a-side Smash Series, a fast-paced, 60-minute community competition aimed at making cricket more accessible and enjoyable for all.