PCB keeps central contracts confidential, tightens domestic cricket rules

LAHORE – Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)has decided not to publicly disclose details of its central contracts for players, including the number of contracted cricketers and their category-wise distribution. The PCB said that the allocation of central contracts and player categorisation will remain an internal matter linked to selection policy and will not be made public. Sources said the board has also introduced significant changes to the central contract structure, linking it more strongly with domestic cricket participation. Under the revised framework, centrally contracted players will be required to participate in domestic cricket across formats, including first-class, List A and T20 matches, depending on their assigned category or “track.” Players have reportedly been informed about the expected domestic workload, which may include around five first-class matches and up to 10 List A games, subject to team and availability requirements. The board has also directed that contracted players must remain available for domestic cricket even when they are not engaged in international assignments. Sources added that centrally contracted players will remain eligible for all three formats of international cricket, and selectors will retain the flexibility to include players from any category whenever required. PCB overhauls central contracts system, introduces five format-based tracks