PCB Moves to Format-Based Central Contracts and Can Withhold Pay for Non-Compliance

Overview

• The PCB announced a mid-June draft that replaces A/B/C/D categories with five format-specific tracks for the 2026–27 central contract cycle to classify Test, ODI, T20 and development players.
• Selectors have made clear that centrally contracted players must play domestic first-class matches or obtain medical clearance or their central contracts will be put on hold and payments withheld until requirements are met.
• Journalists have reported that senior stars including Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi are among those who could face contracts being held if they do not meet the new participation rules.
• The draft sets track-specific retainers and payment rules, with Track AB reported at PKR 4.8–5 million per month, Track A up to PKR 4 million, Track BC about PKR 1.8 million, Track C PKR 1.2–1.5 million and a development Track D for roughly 16–20 players paid up to PKR 1 million monthly, plus half international match fees for domestic appearances.
• The PCB plans to implement the system for the 2026–27 cycle ahead of Pakistan’s July–August Tests in the West Indies and the change could limit some league availability, reshape selection by rewarding red-ball participation and alter income patterns for senior and fringe players.