LAHORE: Announcing a series of reforms including a computerised central contract system, data-driven player selection, higher match fees and greater emphasis on domestic cricket and players’ welfare, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said on Saturday that these steps are aimed at strengthening Pakistan cricket.
Talking informally to media men here at the Gaddafi Stadium, Naqvi said the PCB had been working intensively on cricket-related matters over the last month and several key decisions and policies would be finalised within the next two to three days. “New policies had been formulated for T20, One-Day International and Test cricket, while significant progress had also been made on central contracts and the player selection process,” he said. Player selection is being increasingly systematised and data-based to ensure merit and transparency, he added.
Naqvi said the PCB would introduce five central contract categories, including a newly created emerging players’ category. He reiterated that players would need to meet established criteria to qualify for contracts and national team selection. Performance, fitness, and domestic cricket participation would remain key benchmarks, he said, adding: “The central contract structure would now be computerised with 15 performance points incorporated into the evaluation process.”
He reiterated that players wishing to retain central contracts must actively participate in domestic cricket. He also announced increase in match fees across all three international formats, as well as higher payments for domestic cricketers. “The PCB was committed to players’ welfare and would hold consultations with players on Monday before finalising the reforms.”
Naqvi said: “We are implementing measures whose benefits will be visible over the next one to two years.”
He disclosed that more decision-making authority would be delegated to cricket professionals and individuals with strong cricketing knowledge.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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