PCB to Reshuffle Central Contracts; Several Players Face Exclusion

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is preparing for a significant overhaul of its central contracts for players, with substantial adjustments anticipated, particularly in Category D, sources have indicated.

Sources suggest that discussions regarding the new contracts are in their concluding phase. A number of players are expected to be dropped, while several new faces are likely to be included. Some players may receive central contracts for the first time.

Consultations have been conducted with coaches, the director of high performance, the finance department, and the international cricket department.

Information suggests that cricketers who are not part of any of the three formats are likely to be excluded. Aamir Jamal, Mohammad Huraira, Haseebullah, Usman Khan, and Mohammad Ali are among those who may not be retained.

Conversely, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Haris, Sufyan Muqeem, Hasan Ali, Faheem Ashraf, and Fakhar Zaman are in line to be awarded central contracts.

Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Nawaz, and Sahibzada Farhan are also being considered, leaving open the possibility of their inclusion.

The current three-year financial structure for central contracts is nearing its conclusion. The PCB is expected to make an official announcement regarding the new contracts pending approval from PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

The Pakistan squad for the forthcoming T20I tri-series in the UAE and the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025 is expected to consist of 18 players, an increase of three from the usual number.

The national men’s selection committee has initiated preliminary discussions for the squad and will consult with T20I captain Salman Ali Agha and head coach Mike Hesson, who recently returned to the country after the series against West Indies.

Following the consultation involving the selection committee, captain Agha, and coach Hesson, the list of shortlisted players will be submitted to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi for approval. A formal announcement is anticipated in the coming days.

Sources suggest that the Pakistan squad for the upcoming assignments may include 18 players, with emerging pacers Salman Mirza and Ahmed Daniyal potentially receiving call-ups.

The tri-nation series is scheduled to take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium from August 29 to September 7, featuring Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the UAE.

Pakistan is set to commence their campaign against Afghanistan on August 29. The Asia Cup 2025 is scheduled to begin on August 9 and conclude on September 28.

Pakistan will launch their campaign on September 12 against Oman, with their highly anticipated match against India scheduled for September 14.