The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has released details regarding the players’ remuneration via their central contracts, as reported by The News on Monday. This development comes amid scrutiny following Pakistan’s early exit from the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, with the board considering changes to the players’ central contracts. The proposed changes include potential demotions for some players due to poor performances, while others might lose their central contracts altogether.
According to the details of the existing central contracts, Category A players, which include prominent figures like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and star pacer Shaheen Afridi, receive a monthly salary of Rs4.5 million. These top-tier players are the backbone of the team, both in terms of leadership and performance on the field.
Category B players, including Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah, earn Rs3 million per month. These players are critical to the team’s success, often delivering key performances that contribute to Pakistan’s victories across various formats.
Category C players, such as Imad Wasim, receive between Rs750,000 to Rs1.5 million per month. These players, while not always in the spotlight, play essential roles in the squad, providing depth and versatility.
Meanwhile, Category D players, including Iftikhar Ahmed, Hasan Ali, and Saim Ayub, are also paid between Rs750,000 to Rs1.5 million per month. These players often serve as backups and emerging talents, ready to step in when needed.
It’s important to note that these figures represent only the monthly salaries. Players also earn match fees and win bonuses across all three formats (Test, ODI, T20I) along with sponsorship perks, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
The existing three-year central contracts were awarded last year and took effect on July 1, 2023. These contracts were negotiated under the then-PCB chairman Zaka Ashraf, who faced pressure from players to increase remunerations. This increase was seen as necessary to keep the players motivated and to ensure their financial well-being, given the demanding nature of international cricket.
Despite these efforts, some key players are at risk of losing their Category A status. Skipper Babar Azam and wicket-keeper batsman Mohammad Rizwan, for instance, could be demoted due to recent underwhelming performances. However, sources have indicated that the overall salaries of the national cricketers will not be reduced, even if they are demoted to a lower category.
This potential reshuffling has led to concerns that players might refuse central contracts if they are demoted, opting instead to play without the restrictions these contracts impose. Such a move could lead to a significant shift in how players manage their careers, potentially prioritizing freelance T20 leagues over national commitments.
Currently, the PCB is awaiting a comprehensive report from head coach Gary Kirsten, which will play a crucial role in the decision-making process. Kirsten’s insights are expected to provide a detailed analysis of the team’s performance and individual player contributions. Additionally, senior manager Wahab Riaz will present his report, which will also be reviewed before making final decisions.
These reports are expected to offer a holistic view of the current state of the team, addressing issues of fitness, form, and overall team dynamics. The PCB aims to make informed decisions that will not only address the immediate concerns but also lay the groundwork for long-term success.
The PCB’s move to potentially revamp the central contracts reflects a broader strategy to hold players accountable and to foster a culture of meritocracy. By ensuring that only the most deserving players are rewarded, the board hopes to incentivize performance and commitment.
The PCB’s decision to reassess the central contracts is a significant step towards improving the team’s performance. While it may lead to short-term discomfort for some players, the long-term goal is to build a more competitive and motivated squad. As the board awaits the crucial reports from Gary Kirsten and Wahab Riaz, the cricketing fraternity watches closely, anticipating changes that could shape the future of Pakistan cricket.
