KARACHI: Experienced Sri Lankan cricketer Wanindu Hasaranga is set to miss the eighth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) due to non issuance of No Objection Certificate (NOC) from his home board.
Hasaranga was drafted by Quetta Gladiators for PSL 2023 in the platinum category and the franchise was expecting his arrival by Monday [February 21].
However, the 25-year-old could not get the required NOC from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) to travel to Pakistan and participate in the league. He is currently busy playing first-class cricket in Sri Lanka.
An official of Gladiators confirmed to Geo News that they are aware of Hasaranga’s unavailability and are exploring various options, including a replacement player.
A PCB source said that they have updated the franchise on the matter but was hoping that the situation would change. But it seems unlikely now that the Sri Lankan player will be able to make it for PSL.
Prior to Hasaranga, SLC had also refused NOC to Kusal Mendis who was drafted by Lahore Qalandars. The defending champions had then opted for Shai Hope as a replacement of Mendis.
However, Bhanuka Rajapaksa was permitted to participate in PSL 8 and he is currently in Pakistan playing for Peshawar Zalmi.
The closing ceremony and final of PSL 8 will be played on March 19 in Lahore, which will also host play-offs.
The winner will not only lift the Supernova Trophy but will also collect a cheque of Rs120m, while the runners-up will receive a cheque of Rs48m.
Lahore Qalandars will attempt to become the first side to win back-to-back titles; meanwhile Islamabad United will aim to become the most successful side by lifting the trophy thrice.
Rawalpindi will stage 11 fixtures, Karachi and Lahore will host nine matches each, whereas Multan will have five home games.
Faizan Lakhani Faizan Lakhani is Deputy Editor (Sports) at Geo News.