In a groundbreaking development for Pakistan’s cricketing landscape, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled a historic transformation of central contracts for Pakistan men’s cricketers. This monumental decision brings an end to the conventional one-year contracts, introducing a trailblazing era of stability, financial security, and equitable revenue sharing for players.
Introduction of Three-Year Contracts
For the very first time in the annals of Pakistan’s cricket history, players will be offered three-year central contracts, diverging from the customary annual agreements. This paradigm shift promises enhanced stability and assurance for the cricketers, enabling them to concentrate more ardently on their game without the annual contract negotiations looming overhead.
Elevated Player Earnings and Revenue Sharing
Under the ambit of these revolutionary contracts, players can anticipate a substantial uptick in their earnings. Beyond their monthly retainers, cricketers will be entitled to a fixed portion of the revenue derived from the PCB’s ICC-related activities. This forward-looking move is aimed at ensuring that players receive more equitable remuneration in recognition of their contributions to the national team.
Merger of Red-Ball and White-Ball Contracts
A pivotal alteration in the central contracts encompasses the amalgamation of red-ball and white-ball contracts. This transformation, championed by the central contract committee, seeks to assess players based on their contributions to match victories, thereby fostering fairness and transparency in the selection process.
Four Categories with Substantial Retainer Increases
The pool of contracted players will be segregated into four distinct categories, with each category enjoying significant hikes in their monthly retainers. The inclusion of revenue from ICC activities will contribute to the overall monthly emoluments. Here is the breakdown of the categories and their corresponding percentage increases:
- Category A (3 players): 202% increase
- Category B (6 players): 144% increase
- Category C (2 players): 135% increase
- Category D (14 players): 127% increase
List of Players Offered Contracts
The following players have been offered central contracts in their respective categories:
- Category A: Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Category B: Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, and Shadab Khan
- Category C: Imad Wasim and Abdullah Shafique
- Category D: Fahim Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Ihsanullah, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Saud Shakeel, Shahnawaz Dahani, Shan Masood, Usama Mir, and Zaman Khan
Pakistan’s cricket captain, Babar Azam, lauded this historic agreement, expressing his immense satisfaction and happiness with the outcome. He extended his special thanks to Chairman Zaka Ashraf for his personal dedication and commitment throughout the negotiation process. Babar views this agreement as a new chapter in the players’ careers and a significant milestone for Pakistan cricket, providing a solid foundation as they gear up for the ICC Men’s World Cup.
In his official statement, Babar stated, “It is a historic deal. I am extremely happy and satisfied that we have reached an agreement with the PCB. It has been a lengthy and, at times, challenging negotiation process, but I believe we have reached a fair and beneficial agreement for both parties. I would like to extend my special thanks to Chairman Zaka Ashraf for personally overseeing and facilitating these negotiations. He took a personal interest, and his commitment to Pakistan cricket is truly commendable.”
“This agreement signifies a new chapter in players’ careers and in Pakistan cricket. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all players towards the game, and now we are all geared up ahead of the ICC Men’s World Cup,” added Babar.
