By Zainab Shafiq 
The Melbourne Stars have made a formal request to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) seeking an extension of the No Objection Certificate (NOC) for two key players, Haris Rauf and Usama Mir, in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) 2023-24. Both players have played pivotal roles for the Stars, and the team is eager to retain their services for an extended period.
Initially permitted to participate in only five matches of the BBL, Rauf and Mir were expected to return to Pakistan for the upcoming series against New Zealand. However, the Stars management has urged the PCB to reconsider and allow the players to stay for a more extended period. The decision now rests with the PCB, which will determine whether to extend the NOC or recall the players for national duties.
The upcoming match against the Hobart Hurricanes on Thursday is slated to be the last for Rauf and Mir, as per the initial NOC deadline of December 28. Reports suggest that if the PCB grants the extension, both players could feature in three more crucial matches for the Stars. These include clashes against the Adelaide Strikers on December 31, the Melbourne Renegades on January 2, and the Sydney Sixers on January 6.
However, the Stars’ next match after January 6 coincides with Pakistan vs. New Zealand T20I series scheduled to begin on January 12. This scheduling clash has added complexity to the decision-making process. The PCB faces the task of balancing the players’ commitments to their franchise against national team duties.
The outcome of the NOC extension request is eagerly awaited, as it holds significance for both the Melbourne Stars and the players involved. The decision will impact not only the Stars’ BBL campaign but also the preparation and availability of Rauf and Mir for the crucial T20I series against New Zealand.
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