English cricketers have been encouraged by the players’ union to enter the Pakistan Super League (PSL) draft next month, despite the heavy restrictions imposed by the ECB on participation in overseas franchises.
Mail Sport can confirm that the Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA) contacted the ECB earlier this week, outlining their legal position regarding the new rules on No Objection Certificates (NOCs)—the official clearance required for players to compete in international tournaments.
The PCA has requested multi-format players intending to enter the PSL draft to identify themselves in advance. Earlier this month, the ECB announced a range of measures aimed at curbing the movement of homegrown players to foreign leagues during the English domestic season. These rules include withholding NOCs for players contracted to play in the County Championship from April to September for any competition, except the Indian Premier League.
The PSL, which has traditionally attracted English players, now falls under these restrictions after it was rescheduled to take place in April and May starting in 2025. Many players expressed their anger over the new regulations, which also restrict participation in other Twenty20 competitions that overlap with the Vitality Blast or Hundred. This led to the creation of a private WhatsApp group to discuss potential legal action, including suing the ECB for restraint of trade.
However, the PCA believes that progress has been made in discussions with the ECB before submitting their legal correspondence. Contrary to previous announcements, players with white-ball specific deals that include match fee payments for County Championship appearances will be allowed to participate in the PSL.
Additionally, the PCA clarified in an email sent to members on Wednesday—obtained by Mail Sport—that the previously proposed restrictions on moving between concurrent winter tournaments will not be implemented.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
