The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to introduce a new policy offering attractive financial rewards to national cricketers in a bid to strengthen and promote Test cricket.
Under the proposed framework, players who excel in the longest format of the game could earn millions of rupees through enhanced retainers, match fees, and performance-based incentives.
According to media reports, a player placed in the AB category will be able to earn more than Rs 4.8 million per month, while annual retainer earnings could reach approximately Rs 57 million. This figure does not include match fees.
An AB category player is expected to earn around Rs 80 million annually through Test and ODI match fees. In addition, players will be allowed to participate in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and one overseas league, potentially increasing their total annual earnings to around Rs 150 million.
Under the new policy, AB category players will also be eligible to play T20 Internationals if selected. Meanwhile, opportunities for development and promotion will remain open for players in the B and C categories.
The PCB has also decided to introduce a performance-based bonus system. According to sources, players will receive an additional bonus equivalent to 500 per cent of their match fee for winning an ICC tournament. In comparison, a 300 per cent bonus will be awarded for winning an Asian Cricket Council (ACC) tournament.
B and C category players will also be eligible to play Test cricket if required. However, C-category players will be required to play at least 10 domestic T20 matches in Pakistan before being allowed to participate in overseas leagues.
The issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for foreign leagues will also be linked to fitness standards. C-category players will be granted NOCs only if they pass the required fitness tests.
Under the proposed structure, D-category players will receive a monthly retainer of Rs 1 million and will also be considered for Pakistan A team tours.
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