PCB likely to revamp central contracts ahead of new cycle

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board is expected to introduce significant changes to the central contracts of national cricketers before the next contract cycle begins on July 1, according to people familiar with the matter.

The current financial framework for central contracts is due to end on June 30. That three-year structure was put in place in 2023 during the tenure of former PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf and has continued unchanged under incumbent chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

Preliminary talks on the new set of contracts are already under way, while the final call on the financial model will be made by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, according to the information available.

Changes expected in categories

The board had handed central contracts to 30 players last year. It was also the first time that no cricketer was placed in Category A.

The upcoming contracts are expected to bring broad changes linked to players’ fitness levels and recent performances. As part of that process, a number of players are likely to move up or down across categories.

Those likely to be affected include several established names. The chances of Mohammad Nawaz, Abdullah Shafique, Faheem Ashraf, Hussain Talat and Khushdil Shah keeping their places in the central contracts appear limited, according to the information available.

Domestic performers in contention

At the same time, the board is also expected to weigh the inclusion of players who have impressed in domestic cricket. Among those likely to come under consideration are Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal.

The expected reshuffle comes as the PCB prepares to move into a new contract period from July 1, with the existing model nearing its expiry at the end of this month. The final shape of the revised contracts, including the financial structure and category placements, is yet to be formally decided.

The development points to a possible reset in how the board rewards and retains players in the national setup, with fitness and on-field output set to play a central role in the next round of contracts. Any final changes, however, will depend on the decision taken by the PCB chairman after the ongoing discussions are completed.

The sources said preliminary discussions regarding new central contracts are underway, while the final decision on the financial model will be taken by PCB Chairman Naqvi.

For now, the board appears to be reviewing both the financial terms and the list of contracted players as it prepares to announce a fresh set of agreements for the new cycle.