Pakistan Cricket Board Announces New Central Contracts for Players
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has released its updated list of centrally contracted players, reducing the number of contracts compared to the previous cycle. In the last term, 20 players had two-year contracts with performance reviews set for the end of the 2023-24 season. This time, the focus is on emerging talent and current form.
Promotions and Newcomers
Pakistan captain Fatima Sana and wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali have been promoted to Category A, the highest tier, due to their exceptional performances and growing influence. Left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal has moved up to Category B, acknowledging her recent contributions.
The new list features three newcomers: Gull Feroza, Rameen Shamim, and Tasmia Rubab. Shamim and Rubab return to central contracts after being out since 2018 and the 2022-23 season, respectively. Gull Feroza has received her first central contract.
Focus on Future Talent
Several players, including Aliya Riaz, Anosha Nasir, Eyman Fatima, Nida Dar, Shawaal Zulfiqar, and Sidra Nawaz, did not have their contracts renewed as the PCB aims to nurture the next generation of cricketers in line with the ICC Women’s Future Tours Programme for 2025-29. However, these players remain available for selection.
Contract Categories
| Category A | Category B | Category C | Category D |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fatima Sana | Nashra Sundhu | Diana Baig | Ghulam Fatima |
| Muneeba Ali | Sadia Iqbal | Omaima Sohail | Gull Feroza |
| Sidra Amin | Najiha Alvi | ||
| Rameen Shamim | |||
| Sadaf Shamas | |||
| Syeda Aroob Shah | |||
| Tasmia Rubab | |||
| Tuba Hassan | |||
| Umm-e-Hani |
Doubts Revealed
Pakistan Cricket Board -: The Pakistan Cricket Board, or PCB, is the organization that manages cricket in Pakistan. They are responsible for organizing matches, selecting players, and promoting the sport in the country.
Central Contracts -: Central contracts are agreements between the cricket board and players. These contracts provide players with a salary and other benefits, ensuring they are available to play for the national team.
Category A and B -: In central contracts, players are divided into categories based on their performance and importance to the team. Category A players are usually the top performers, while Category B players are also important but may not have the same level of experience or performance.
Emerging Talent -: Emerging talent refers to young or new players who show great potential in cricket. The PCB wants to focus on these players to build a strong team for the future.
Fatima Sana -: Fatima Sana is a talented cricketer from Pakistan who has been recognized for her skills and promoted to a higher category in the central contracts.
Muneeba Ali -: Muneeba Ali is another skilled cricketer from Pakistan who has been promoted to Category A, indicating her importance to the team.
Sadia Iqbal -: Sadia Iqbal is a cricketer who has been moved to Category B, which means she is still an important player but not at the top level like Category A.
Gull Feroza, Rameen Shamim, Tasmia Rubab -: These are new players who have been added to the list of centrally contracted players. They are considered promising talents for the future of Pakistan cricket.
