Major Changes Expected in New Central Contracts for Pakistan Cricketers

Pakistan Cricket Board is expected to introduce major changes in the upcoming central contracts for national cricketers ahead of the new financial cycle starting on July 1.

The current financial model for central contracts will expire on June 30, while the new contracts are set to take effect from the beginning of July. Final decisions regarding the financial structure will reportedly be made by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

The existing three-year financial model was introduced in 2023 during the tenure of former PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf. Although the current administration did not replace the model, player categories continued to change based on fitness standards and on-field performances.

Initial discussions regarding the new central contracts are already underway, with reports suggesting large-scale adjustments in player categories. Several cricketers are expected to face demotions, while strong domestic performers could earn promotions or first-time contracts.

Last year, 30 players received central contracts, and for the first time no player was placed in the top A category.

According to sources, the chances of inclusion for players such as Mohammad Nawaz, Abdullah Shafique, Faheem Ashraf, Hussain Talat, and Khushdil Shah appear slim.

Meanwhile, domestic performers including Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal are being considered for possible inclusion in the new list of centrally contracted players.