PCB to revamp 2025–26 central contracts with major changes

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is planning a major revamp of its central contracts for the 2025–26 season, with significant changes expected in Category D, sources revealed on Saturday.

According to insiders, discussions over the new contracts are in the final stages, with several players set to be dropped while new names are likely to be included. Some cricketers could also earn central contracts for the first time. Consultations have already been held with coaches, the director of high performance, the finance department, and the international cricket department.

Sources confirmed that players no longer active in any of the three formats are expected to be excluded. Among those likely to miss out are Haseebullah, Usman Khan, and Mohammad Ali.

On the other hand, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Haris, Sufiyan Muqeem, Hasan Ali, Faheem Ashraf, and Fakhar Zaman are expected to be awarded central contracts. The inclusion of Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Nawaz, and Sahibzada Farhan is also under consideration.

The current three-year financial model for central contracts is in its final year, and the PCB will make the official announcement after approval from chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

According to sources, for upcoming tournaments, Pakistan’s squad for the T20I tri-series in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025 is expected to feature 18 players, three more than usual. The selection committee has begun deliberations and will consult with T20I captain Salman Ali Agha and head coach Mike Hesson, who returned from the West Indies white-ball series earlier this week.

Sources revealed that after these consultations, the final list of shortlisted players will be sent to PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi for approval, with the official announcement expected in the next two to three days. Emerging pacers Salman Mirza and Ahmed Daniyal are likely to be included in the squad.

The tri-nation series will be held at Sharjah Cricket Stadium from August 29 to September 7, featuring Pakistan, Afghanistan, and hosts UAE. Pakistan will begin their campaign against Afghanistan on August 29 at 7:00 PM local time.

The Asia Cup 2025, which starts on September 9 with Afghanistan taking on Hong Kong, will conclude on September 28. Pakistan’s campaign begins on September 12 against Oman, with the high-profile clash against arch-rivals India scheduled for September 14.