PCB introduces five-track contract system in major overhaul of player structure

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday announced a sweeping overhaul of its player contracting system, replacing the traditional A, B, C and D categories with a new format-based structure designed to modernise player management and strengthen long-term cricket development.

Briefing the media ahead of the 2026 central contracts cycle, PCB officials, including chairman Mohsin Naqvi, said the new system will be built around five distinct player tracks that define roles based on format specialization rather than general grading.

Under the revised model, Track AB (Dual Format: Test & ODI) will represent the top tier for players capable of performing in both red-ball and 50-over cricket. Officials clarified that occasional T20 appearances by players in this category will not change their classification.

Track A will be reserved for Test specialists, focusing exclusively on red-ball cricket. The PCB said the aim is to protect and strengthen long-format cricket by allowing players to prioritise Test and first-class commitments without limited-overs obligations.

Track BC will cover ODI and T20 International players, replacing the earlier separate ODI category and grouping white-ball specialists under a unified structure.

Track C will cater to T20 specialists and franchise-focused players, reflecting the growing role of global leagues while maintaining national team availability.

Track D will serve as a development pathway linked to the National Cricket Academy, aimed at emerging cricketers progressing through Pakistan’s high-performance system.

Officials said each senior category will include internal tiers, allowing movement based on performance, fitness and form. The PCB added that selection and retention will now depend on a structured assessment process including medical evaluations, domestic cricket participation and format-specific performance analysis.

Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said the reform was designed to provide clarity, transparency and defined expectations for players, while aligning Pakistan cricket with global trends where format specialization has become increasingly important.

He added that the new structure also aims to safeguard Test cricket amid the growing influence of franchise leagues worldwide.

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The PCB confirmed that financial details and individual player categories will not be made public at this stage.

During the briefing, Naqvi also addressed media reports regarding alleged coaching and mentoring appointments, including speculation about former captains Younis Khan and Mohammad Hafeez.

He said several reports had circulated before any official confirmation, adding that internal discussions were still ongoing regarding staffing requirements and roles within the setup.

Naqvi clarified that no formal announcements had been made, and described the media speculation as premature. He added that efforts were being made to involve experienced former players wherever possible to strengthen Pakistan cricket.

Reports also suggest that Sarfaraz Ahmed will continue in his current role and remain part of the Test setup for upcoming tours, despite speculation about possible changes.