Pakistan’s men’s cricketers will need to remain active in domestic cricket if they want to secure central contracts under a new PCB policy aimed at strengthening the country’s cricket structure. Speaking to reporters during an informal media interaction on Saturday, Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi outlined a series of planned reforms that will reshape how central contracts are awarded and managed.
The proposed changes form part of a wider review of the men’s contracts framework, with discussions held with players ahead of a detailed announcement expected following further consultations. Naqvi indicated that the revised system is designed to place greater emphasis on performance, accountability and participation across all levels of the game.
Domestic cricket becomes a key requirement
A central feature of the new policy is the requirement for national players to remain involved in domestic competitions if they wish to qualify for central contracts.
Addressing the issue, Mohsin Naqvi told reporters: “If a player does not play domestic cricket, he will not receive a central contract.”
The move reflects the PCB’s intention to strengthen the connection between the domestic game and the national setup while ensuring contracted players continue contributing to local competitions.
New structure planned for central contracts
Naqvi revealed that the revamped system will feature five categories, including separate classifications for players specialising in different formats. Under the proposed framework, Test and ODI cricket will be grouped together, while T20 players will be assessed within a separate category.
The PCB is also planning to introduce a dedicated category for emerging cricketers as part of its efforts to recognise and support developing talent within the system.
Eligibility for contracts will be based on a combination of domestic participation, fitness benchmarks and on-field performances, with players expected to meet the required standards to maintain their status.
Focus on transparency and accountability
Alongside changes to eligibility criteria, the PCB is also planning to modernise the contracts process through digitisation.
Discussing those plans, Naqvi added: “The contract document will be computerised, and no one will have any influence over it. Nobody will be able to say that a player should have been in Category A or Category B.”
The PCB Chairman said the objective is to remove any perception of favouritism and ensure that contract decisions are based on clearly defined criteria rather than external influence.
Wider reforms under consideration
The proposed overhaul extends beyond the contracts system. Naqvi indicated that the PCB is working on measures aimed at strengthening both domestic and national cricket structures, including increasing opportunities for red-ball players within the domestic calendar.
He also revealed plans to raise domestic match fees as part of broader efforts to support players and improve the overall environment within Pakistan’s cricket system.
Cricket decisions to remain with specialists
Naqvi was also asked about the future of Test Captain Shan Masood during the media interaction. While declining to indicate any specific outcome, he suggested that cricket-related decisions should be guided by those with relevant expertise.
Addressing the issue, Naqvi noted: “I want cricket minds to decide what should and should not be done.”
He also revealed that he has been consulting former cricketers, including Younis Khan, as part of broader discussions aimed at strengthening Pakistan cricket.
The PCB is expected to provide further details on the revamped contracts framework following consultations with players. The proposed changes form part of a broader effort to strengthen domestic cricket, increase transparency and reshape the pathway between the domestic and national game.
