PCB likely to unveil central contracts, test squads for West Indies, England Series

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to unveil its new central contracts and squads for the upcoming Test series against the West Indies and England later this week.

The inner sources revealed that the squads for both tours are expected to be announced together, with uncertainty surrounding Test captain Shan Masood. His place in the central contracts list remains unclear, while his future as Pakistan’s red-ball captain is also under scrutiny. The selection committee is currently deliberating on his inclusion in the squad.

Sources said the selection committee has finalised key decisions regarding both the central contracts and the Test squad. During an important meeting held two days ago, several names were discussed for inclusion in the central contract list and the Test squad.

The committee is also considering changes to the middle order, with Owais Zafar emerging as a strong contender for selection. Among the fast bowlers, Obaid Shah, Khurram Shahzad, and Mohammad Abbas are expected to be included in the squad.

On the other hand, according to top cricket website Cricinfo, players will be eligible for a central contract if they have featured in at least four Test matches, six One Day Internationals (ODIs), or six T20 Internationals over the past 12 months.

Under the new system, players have been divided into different categories. Top Test specialists in Track A will be paid Rs 4 million per month, while top players performing in both Test and ODI formats in Track AB will receive Rs 4.8 million per month.

Similarly, top white-ball specialists in Track BC will earn Rs 3.4 million per month, while T20 specialists in Track C will receive a monthly salary of Rs 2.6 million. Players in Track C will also be allowed to participate in T20 leagues around the world without restrictions.

The new central contract also includes a special provision for emerging players. Emerging cricketers placed in Track D will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 1 million.

New match fee rates have also been announced, under which a Test match fee will be Rs 1.5 million, an ODI fee will be Rs 750,000, and a T20 International fee will be Rs 500,000.