The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has launched a comprehensive overhaul of its central contract system, tying eligibility directly to recent international appearances and format specialization to enhance transparency and accountability.
Effective from July 1 2026 to June 30 2027, only male players who have featured in at least four Tests, six ODIs, or six T20Is during the preceding twelve months will qualify for central contracts. This criterion ensures that contracts reward those actively contributing at the international level.
The eligibility benchmark applies solely to senior categories; emerging players will continue to progress through a dedicated pathway.
Format‑Based Contract Tracks
According to an ESPNCricinfo report, the PCB has replaced its traditional category model with a five‑track structure that reflects modern cricket’s realities.
The new tracks are:
- Track AB – Multi‑format players participating in Tests and ODIs
- Track A – Test specialists
- Track BC – White‑ball specialists (ODIs and T20Is)
- Track C – T20 specialists
- Track D – Emerging and pathway cricketers
Each senior track comprises two salary tiers. While remuneration varies by tier, the eligibility standards, domestic obligations, and No Objection Certificate (NOC) rules are consistent within each track.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, white‑ball head coach Mike Hesson, and academy director Aaqib Javed unveiled the new framework and later held a workshop with players to explain the changes.
Higher Rewards for Red‑Ball Specialists
The revamped system financially safeguards players devoted to Test cricket.
| Track | Tier 1 Monthly Retainer | Tier 2 Monthly Retainer |
|---|---|---|
| Track AB | PKR 4.8 million | PKR 3.8 million |
| Track A | PKR 4.0 million | PKR 3.6 million |
| Track BC | PKR 3.4 million | PKR 2.6 million |
| Track C | PKR 2.6 million | PKR 2.0 million |
| Track D | PKR 1.0 million | N/A |
The PCB notes that this structure acknowledges Test cricket’s unique demands while granting white‑ball specialists flexibility to join global franchise leagues.
Match Fees Vary by Track
Unlike the previous uniform fee system, the new model ties match fees to a player’s designated track.
Track A (Test specialist) fees:
- PKR 1.5 million per Test
- PKR 650,000 per ODI
- PKR 450,000 per T20I
Track AB (multi‑format) fees:
- PKR 1.5 million per Test
- PKR 750,000 per ODI
- PKR 500,000 per T20I
Track BC white‑ball specialists will earn PKR 750,000 for ODIs and PKR 500,000 for T20Is, while Track C T20 specialists receive PKR 500,000 for both formats. Selectors may still pick players outside their primary track when required.
Performance‑Based ICC Bonus
The PCB has introduced a substantial incentive for success in major ICC events. Players participating in a winning ICC tournament will receive a bonus equal to 500 % of their match fee, offering a strong financial motive for international triumphs.
Pakistan’s last ICC title was the 2017 Champions Trophy, making this incentive particularly relevant as the team aims to reclaim global glory.
Greater Freedom for T20 Specialists
Track C players will no longer face limits on the number of overseas franchise leagues they can join. The PCB believes that earnings from global T20 competitions can offset the lower retainer in this category.
Revised NOC policy:
- Track AB players may join one overseas T20 league per contract cycle.
- Track BC players may join two overseas leagues.
- Track C players have no cap on overseas T20 league participation.
- Track A players are restricted to domestic white‑ball leagues, except the PSL.
All centrally contracted players must remain available for the Pakistan Super League.
Three‑Stage Evaluation Process
Meeting the appearance threshold alone does not guarantee a contract. Players must also pass a three‑step assessment:
- Medical and fitness evaluation (conducted every four months)
- Domestic cricket participation requirements
- Minimum performance score benchmarks
For example, Track AB players must feature in at least four first‑class and four List A matches annually, while Track A players must play a minimum of six first‑class games.
The PCB has reduced the selectors’ weight in contract reviews to 15 % of the annual evaluation, with the remaining 85 % based on international and domestic performances and fitness standards.
A Shift Toward Accountability
This contract overhaul represents one of the most significant reforms in Pakistan cricket’s professional era. By aligning remuneration with format specialization, setting clear eligibility rules, and emphasizing performance metrics, the PCB aims to create a transparent and sustainable system.
Whether the new model delivers greater consistency and player development will become evident in the coming seasons, but the message is clear: central contracts must now be earned through performance, fitness, and availability rather than reputation alone.