With the current financial model set to expire on June 30, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is preparing for a significant shake-up in its central contracts system, and early discussions over the list of contracted players are already underway.
The financial model currently in place was introduced in 2023 under former PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf for a three-year period. Incumbent Chairperson Mohsin Naqvi kept the model intact after taking charge but made category adjustments along the way based on player fitness and performance.
The said three-year term now runs out at the end of June, and Naqvi will decide the new financial model going forward.
Last year, PCB handed central contracts to 30 cricketers. Notably, no player made it into the A category, a first in recent memory.
Reports said the new contracts are expected to bring sweeping changes in terms of names and categories. Several players currently holding contracts are likely to be moved up or down the tier ladder, while others face losing their contracts altogether.
Mohammad Nawaz, Abdullah Shafique, Faheem Ashraf, Haseeb Atai and Khushdil Shah are among those whose inclusion looks uncertain, Geo reported. On the other hand, domestic performers Azaan Awais and Abdullah Fazal are among the names being considered for inclusion in the new cycle, rewarding consistent performances at the domestic level.
The final call on the financial structure and the contracted names rests with Naqvi, with a formal announcement expected ahead of July 1.
