Litton Das to Skip Zimbabwe Tests for PSL 2025 After Securing Full-Season NOC from BCB

Bangladesh’s wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das is set to miss the upcoming two-match Test series against Zimbabwe after securing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the full season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025.

The decision marks another instance of players prioritising franchise cricket over national commitments, reigniting discussions in Bangladesh’s cricketing circles. Litton, who will represent Karachi Kings in the upcoming PSL season.

Confirmed the development to Cricbuzz, stating, “I have obtained a full-season NOC.” His absence from the Test squad leaves Bangladesh without one of their key batters as they prepare to host Zimbabwe in April. Meanwhile, leg-spinner Rishad Hossain has also been granted a full NOC, given that he is not part of the Test setup.

Rana to Play First Test Before Joining PSL

Unlike Litton and Rishad, young pacer Nahid Rana has been handed a partial NOC, allowing him to play the opening Test against Zimbabwe before heading to Pakistan for the PSL. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is managing Rana’s workload carefully, ensuring he contributes to the Test series while still making an appearance in the T20 league. Rana was picked by Peshawar Zalmi, while Rishad was drafted by Lahore Qalandars during the players' draft on 13 January.

Franchise vs National Duty: The Growing Debate

The clash between national duty and franchise cricket has once again sparked debate in Bangladesh’s cricket fraternity. With several players securing PSL contracts, the BCB faces a dilemma over balancing international fixtures and player aspirations. Bangladesh’s Test preparations are set to begin in the second week of April, while the PSL will run from 8 April to 19 May. The two-match Test series against Zimbabwe is scheduled between 20 April and 2 May, directly conflicting with the league’s schedule.

Najmul Hossain, who recently led Bangladesh in the ICC Champions Trophy and is a frontrunner to continue as captain, weighed in on the matter. Speaking about NOCs, he emphasised the importance of allowing players to participate in global leagues. “Players should be given NOCs to play in different leagues,” he stated, highlighting the growing significance of franchise cricket in shaping careers and improving skillsets.

Impact on Bangladesh’s Test Squad

With Litton Das and Rishad Hossain unavailable for the Zimbabwe series, Bangladesh will need to reshuffle their squad. Litton’s absence leaves a gap in the batting order and the wicketkeeping department, potentially opening the door for other contenders to step up. The selectors may also need to reconsider their spin options, given Rishad’s unavailability.

The BCB’s decision on balancing player workloads will be closely watched, especially as the lure of franchise leagues continues to grow. With PSL 2025 offering lucrative contracts and competitive opportunities, players opting for T20 leagues over international duties is becoming an increasingly common trend.

As Bangladesh gears up for the Zimbabwe Tests, the focus will remain on how they manage their squad without key players. Meanwhile, all eyes will be on Litton Das, Rishad Hossain, and Nahid Rana as they prepare to showcase their skills in PSL 2025.