Pakistan’s leading cricketers could be set for a significant increase in earnings under a proposed overhaul of the Pakistan Cricket Board’s central contract structure, with the board moving towards a format-based model that would reward players according to their role across the international game. According to a report by Geo News, the PCB has finalised a draft framework for its 2026-27 central contracts, introducing a new track system that could see some players earn more than PKR 50 million (approx. US$180K) annually from retainers alone.
The proposed model represents a major shift in how centrally contracted players are compensated. Rather than relying on a traditional category system, the PCB plans to group players according to their format specialisation, with red-ball and multi-format cricketers positioned as the biggest beneficiaries.
Multi-format players emerge as the biggest winners
Under the draft structure, players selected across both Test and ODI cricket would fall into Track AB, which is expected to become the most lucrative category in the system.
Cricketers in this group are set to receive monthly retainers ranging from PKR 4.8 million (approx. US$17K) to PKR 5 million (approx. US$18K). Over a full year, those payments could exceed PKR 50 million (approx. US$180K) before any additional match fees, bonuses or commercial earnings are considered.
The PCB has also placed a strong emphasis on rewarding Test cricket, with players categorised as red-ball specialists in Track A expected to receive monthly retainers of up to PKR 4 million (approx. US$14K).
Separate tracks for white-ball and T20 specialists
The new system would also create dedicated pathways for players who specialise in limited-overs formats.
Track BC, covering white-ball players, is expected to provide monthly retainers of around PKR 1.8 million (approx. US$6K).
Meanwhile, players contracted exclusively as T20 specialists under Track C are likely to earn between PKR 1.2 million (approx. US$4K) and PKR 1.5 million (approx. US$5K) per month.
Track C is expected to be reserved primarily for players focused on T20 internationals and franchise-based cricket opportunities.
The draft framework also includes Track D, which would cover development players and those associated with the National Cricket Academy. Players in this category are expected to receive retainers of up to PKR 1 million (approx. US$4K) per month.
Match fees and bonuses add further earning potential
Central contract payments would be separate from international match fees, creating additional earning opportunities throughout the year.
Under the proposed structure, players could receive PKR 1.5 million (approx. US$5K) for each Test appearance, PKR 750,000 (approx. US$3K) per ODI and PKR 500,000 (approx. US$2K) per T20 international.
The PCB is also planning a substantial incentive programme tied to tournament success.
Players could receive a bonus worth 500% of their match fee for winning an ICC event, while victories in Asian Cricket Council tournaments would attract bonuses equivalent to 300% of their match fees.
Franchise cricket remains part of the model
The proposed system would continue to allow centrally contracted players to participate in franchise leagues, both domestically and overseas.
Approval to play in those competitions would be linked to the player’s designated contract track, creating a framework that aligns franchise participation with the PCB’s broader player management strategy.
The approach reflects the growing importance of league cricket within the global game while allowing the board to maintain oversight of player workloads and availability.
Questions remain before final approval
The contracts have been drafted by a committee that includes Red-Ball Head Coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and White-Ball Head Coach Mike Hesson.
However, several details remain unresolved, including how many players will ultimately receive contracts under the new structure.
One issue already generating debate is the possibility that the PCB may not publicly disclose player categories and contract classifications. Such a move would represent a departure from previous practice and has reportedly drawn criticism within Pakistan cricket circles.
The PCB has yet to formally announce its central contracts for the 2026-27 season. However, the proposed framework signals a clear shift towards rewarding format specialisation, Test cricket participation and international success as the board reshapes its player compensation model. If approved in its current form, it would mark the first time the PCB has adopted a fully format-based central contract structure.
