PCB Announces New Central Contracts System for Pakistan Cricketers

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced major changes in its central contracts system, introducing a new structure based on formats and player performance.

According to the PCB, players will now be divided into different “tracks” instead of the traditional A, B, C, and D categories.

New Contract Structure

Under the new system:

• Track A and B will include Test and One-Day International players
• Track A will focus on red-ball specialists
• Track B and C will include ODI and T20 players
• Track C will be for T20 specialists only
• Track D will include emerging and academy players

The PCB said that central contracts will now be heavily performance-based, with 85% weightage given to on-field performance, fitness, domestic participation, and consistency.

Focus on Performance and Fitness

Officials said that medical fitness and domestic cricket participation will be key requirements for selection in central contracts.

The PCB also confirmed that the old system of A, B, C, and D categories has been replaced with this new track-based structure.

New Rules for Test and Limited-Overs Players

According to PCB policy:

• Test specialists will only play red-ball cricket
• They will be allowed to participate in first-class and county cricket
• They will not be allowed to play T20 franchise leagues
• ODI and T20 players will be allowed to play up to two leagues

The PCB said the aim is to give Test players experience in traditional long-format environments while keeping them focused on red-ball cricket.

Chairman PCB’s Statement

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said that 15% of selection authority will remain with the selection committee. He stressed that fitness and performance data from domestic cricket will be fully used to ensure transparency and fairness.

He added that the new system will remove bias and ensure that no player is treated unfairly.

Coaches and Officials React

National team head coach Mike Hesson said modern cricket has changed and the new system will help improve Test cricket standards.

Selector Aaqib Javed said the focus is now shifting from individual performance to team performance, and players have been clearly informed about the new system.

PCB doctor Javed Mughal added that sports medicine standards have evolved, and the new approach will help reduce injuries and improve player fitness.