Former Pakistan cricketers who take part in the Asian Legends League in Zambia now face a two-year ban from PCB-affiliated roles, including coaching and PSL assignments. The board's warning, issued Tuesday, targets players who joined the 20th edition of the tournament without official clearance. Main Developments PCB's disciplinary action stems from the league's status as an unsanctioned event under ICC regulations. The International Cricket Council classifies the tournament as disapproved, and the Zambia Cricket Union has not granted its sanction either. Players who participated without obtaining a No Objection Certificate from PCB will face a two-year suspension from receiving any NOC for approved overseas leagues. Beyond the NOC ban, offending individuals become ineligible for two years for any cricketing, coaching, consultancy, mentoring, or other assignments with PCB and the HBL Pakistan Super League. The board's statement emphasizes that ICC rules require all foreign players to secure an NOC from their home board before playing in overseas events. Read also: Cricket Pay Secrecy: Court Halts Transparency Ruling Background The Asian Legends League, now in its 20th edition, has attracted former international cricketers despite lacking official recognition. PCB's warning follows a pattern of boards cracking down on unsanctioned leagues that operate outside ICC's regulatory framework. The governing body has previously reminded member boards of their obligation to take appropriate action against players participating in such events. PCB's press release also notes that failure to act could result in action against the member board itself. This aligns with ICC's broader push to maintain control over the global cricket calendar and player release protocols. Why It Matters This warning sets a clear precedent for former players considering participation in unsanctioned leagues, especially as such events proliferate in the post-retirement circuit. For PCB, enforcing these rules protects its authority over player release and ensures compliance with ICC regulations. The two-year bans could significantly impact players' post-retirement career opportunities, including coaching roles and PSL involvement. What's Next PCB will likely identify and notify individual players who participated in the Zambian event, initiating disciplinary proceedings. Those affected may have the opportunity to respond before any final sanctions are imposed. The board's next steps will depend on the response from the players and any further clarification from ICC regarding the league's status.