PCB Enforces Domestic Cricket Mandate for Central Contracts
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a strict enforcement of domestic first-class match participation requirements for centrally contracted players. PCB Director High Performance Aaqib Javed stated that contracts of several star cricketers, including Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi, may be placed on hold due to non-compliance with this mandatory condition. He emphasized that the system must be respected by everyone, regardless of seniority or reputation.
Contract Hold and Payment Suspension
Aaqib Javed explained that until a player fulfills the requirement of playing domestic matches or obtains medical clearance, their contract will remain on hold. During this period, they will not receive any payments. However, once the requirements are met, pending dues will be released. He noted that even in previous contracts, participation in first-class cricket was mandatory but not properly implemented. Now, the PCB is committed to enforcing the rule strictly.
Selection Based on Data and Fitness, Not Reputation
Javed clarified that contracts will not be awarded based on seniority or reputation. Instead, selections will be made on data and performance impact, with fitness being a key factor. He stated that under the A contract, Test specialists will be evaluated specifically in the Test format, with the category including 6 to 8 top performers. These players must play at least 6 first-class matches. The fee per Test match is PKR 1.5 million, while for domestic first-class matches they will receive half the fee (PKR 750,000). They will not be allowed to participate in leagues.
Contract Categories and Tiers
Top performers will be divided into Tier 1 and Tier 2 across various contract categories. Players who play both Tests and ODIs will be placed in the A/B category, which carries the highest value and remuneration. This category also has two tiers. These players must play at least 4 domestic first-class matches and 4 domestic one-day matches, and they will receive half of their international match fee for domestic games. They will be allowed to play one league per year.
Players participating in ODIs and T20s will be given a B/C contract, also divided into Tier 1 and Tier 2. They are required to play a minimum of 2 first-class matches, 4 domestic one-day matches, and 6 T20 matches in a season. They will be permitted to play two leagues per year. The C category consists of T20 specialist players, though their number will be limited. They will receive the lowest retainer fee but can play as many leagues as they wish, except when on national duty.
Development Contract for Emerging Players
Aaqib Javed highlighted that the Category D development contract is the most important. It will include 16 to 20 young, emerging players, such as those in the Shaheens, who will be paid a monthly salary of PKR 1 million. This initiative aims to nurture future talent and ensure a strong pipeline for Pakistan cricket.
Shaheen Afridi's Test Future
Regarding Shaheen Afridi's Test future, Aaqib Javed remarked, "You cannot play T20 cricket all year and suddenly bowl 20–25 overs in Test matches after regularly bowling just 4 overs." He stressed that players who consistently play four-day cricket and show interest in the format should be prioritized for red-ball cricket.
Captaincy Updates
On captaincy matters, Javed stated that after a meeting of all selectors, recommendations for the national captain will be sent to the chairman for final approval. Nothing is clear yet regarding the Test captaincy, and a decision will be made in the coming days. Regarding Salman Ali Agha’s captaincy in T20s, he said that in modern cricket, it is very difficult for anything to be long-term. He added that a different approach will be needed in T20 cricket, and various options will be discussed. As a captain, the most important thing is to influence other players through your own performance. Discussions on this matter are currently ongoing.
Babar Azam's T20 Inclusion
Aaqib Javed said Babar Azam’s inclusion in T20 cricket will depend on available options. He added that young players are being given opportunities, such as in the Asian Games squad, and bold decisions are necessary for future improvement. He concluded that history will remember whether decisions were made for improvement or influenced by favoritism toward certain players.
