BCCI cancels Yusuf Pathan’s NOC for Hong Kong T20 event

Earlier, the BCCI had broken their protocol and allowed Yusuf Pathan to join in the Hongkong franchise. Pathan, who represents Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, was supposed to join Shahid Afridi and Tymal Mills in the Cantons' lineup. 

But now after the BCCI's sudden change of mind, Pathan will not be able to compete in the money-spinning tournament. But, this news has also come as a setback for former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik, who wanted to play in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). The Indian Express reported that Karthik has confirmed his application was spiked. 

It has also been reported that Pathan had initially received the NOC from the BCCI office. However, it is understood the BCCI overturned their decision when they were overwhelmed by a host of other players who expressed their interest in playing in other T20 leagues and wanted NOCs.

Incidentally, Pathan is no longer a BCCI centrally contracted player. So when the news of his joining emerged, it was believed that the BCCI had softened its stance on releasing India players for other T20 leagues. 

One of the officials was quoted by the Indian Express saying, “Indian players have a brand name. Indian players playing in the league will attract Indian viewers. It would also mean that our sponsors too want to invest in other leagues. That is why we will be not allowing any Indian players to be part of any leagues.”