According to Geo Super, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering a dramatic revamp of its domestic cricket structure, including reducing the number of teams from 18 to just nine. The move is aimed at improving competition quality and preparing players more effectively for the international stage.
This significant step is designed to prioritise quality over quantity and enhance player grooming at all levels of the game. Despite a record number of matches played in recent seasons, the PCB is reportedly dissatisfied with the overall standard of domestic cricket. Concerns about performance levels and a shallow talent pool have triggered internal discussions on foundational structural changes.
Domestic leadership under scrutiny amid reform committee shakeup
The PCB’s dissatisfaction extends to those managing domestic cricket. Director of Domestic Cricket Abdullah Khurram Niazi and Senior General Manager Junaid Zia are reportedly out of favor with key decision-makers.
Though both remain in their roles, their exclusion from the newly formed domestic reform committee suggests a significant shift in internal power dynamics. Reports indicate that their past performance has not met the board’s evolving expectations.
New reform committee blends cricket and administration
In response, the PCB has established a domestic cricket reform committee with a blend of cricketing and non-cricketing members. The panel includes:
- Bilal Afzal – Advisor to the Chairman
- Sameer Syed – Chief Operating Officer
- Khawaja Nadeem – President, RCA Lahore
- Aaqib Javed – Former interim head coach
- Wahab Riaz – Former chief selector
Aaqib Javed is reportedly leading the drafting of reform proposals, while Wahab Riaz is consulting with ex-international Salman Butt. The committee has been tasked with submitting its recommendations to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi within five working days.
Past domestic reforms saw disruption and cancellations
This is not the PCB’s first attempt at domestic restructuring. In recent years, the board introduced events such as the Champions Cup and inter-collegiate tournaments, but these came at the expense of long-standing competitions like the National One-Day Cup and junior tournaments.
One controversial moment came when the junior event was abruptly cancelled after just one day of play—and has not resumed since. With the PCB once again pursuing deep structural reform, the outcomes of this new process could reshape the domestic cricket landscape in Pakistan for years to come.
