Minor changes expected as current deal nears end; top performers may earn upgrades
LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has started early discussions on the central contracts for national players for the upcoming 2025–26 season, as the current agreement approaches its conclusion on June 30.
This contract cycle will be the final year of the three-year financial model introduced during Zaka Ashraf’s tenure in 2023. According to sources, the board is unlikely to make drastic changes but will consider some adjustments within the existing player categories.
Players who deliver consistent or standout performances in the ongoing 2024–25 season may see promotions or be newly included in the upcoming list. Names like Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Ali, and Faheem Ashraf — absent from the current roster — are being reconsidered for inclusion.
Moreover, emerging domestic stars are likely to be added under Category D, especially to strengthen the Emerging Players program. This move reflects PCB’s goal to support promising talent by offering financial and career stability at an early stage.
Despite a leadership change, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is expected to maintain the overall contract structure, favouring continuity. Last year, the board announced its central contracts on October 27, classifying players across four distinct categories.
The previous contract list included top-tier cricketers such as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in Category A. Players like Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Shan Masood filled Category B, while Category C featured eight others including Saud Shakeel and Shadab Khan. Category D was largely made up of rising talents and newer faces.