South Africa’s High Court has delivered a landmark verdict that could have global implications. The court has instructed Cricket South Africa (CSA) to issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Tabraiz Shamsi for the remainder of the ILT20 season as well. This ruling is expected to influence freelance cricketers around the world.
A few days earlier, Shamsi had withdrawn himself from MI Cape Town’s SA20 squad. The left-arm wrist spinner took the decision primarily to play in the ILT20 and the Big Bash League.
MI Cape Town had picked Shamsi for around $29,000 at the auction. However, he later pulled out of the contract citing personal reasons, which meant breaching the auction terms. Despite that, SA20 accepted his decision last November, and MI Cape Town signed a replacement player.
Shamsi, who has represented South Africa in 127 international matches, signed with Gulf Giants for the ILT20. Initially, CSA granted him an NOC only until December 19, midway through the tournament. Challenging that decision, Shamsi approached South Africa’s High Court seeking permission to play the full tournament. The court ruled in his favor.
The court has ordered CSA to extend Shamsi’s NOC until January 4, the day of the ILT20 final, and also to cover his legal expenses. CSA has issued a separate NOC for the Big Bash League, where Shamsi will feature for the Adelaide Strikers in the ongoing competition.
With the rapid growth of franchise T20 leagues worldwide, disputes over NOCs have increased in several countries over the past few years. This verdict could now serve as a reference point for freelance cricketers who wish to play in overseas franchise tournaments during their home season.
According to ICC regulations, a player must obtain an NOC from their home board to participate in foreign domestic or franchise leagues. Boards generally hesitate to issue NOCs when domestic cricket is being played at home.
To take advantage of all available opportunities, Shamsi withdrew from CSA’s national contract last year. Although the 35-year-old bowler remains available for international cricket, he currently has no domestic contract and has not been called up to the national team since last February.
Previously, Shamsi played in the SA20 for Paarl Royals and Joburg Super Kings. His chances of featuring in the tournament again now appear slim. CSA has not commented on the matter.
