Pakistan Cricket Board launches a revolutionary five-track contract model aimed at protecting Test cricket and recognising modern-day specialists.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a historic overhaul of its central contract structure, introducing a world-first format-based system designed to reflect the changing dynamics of international cricket. The new framework, which will come into effect from the 2026 contracting cycle, replaces the traditional category model with a structure that recognises specialist players across different formats.
Under the revamped system, players will no longer be grouped solely according to pay grades. Instead, the PCB has created five separate contract tracks based on format commitments, ensuring that Test specialists, white-ball players and T20 franchise stars are assessed according to their specific roles and contributions.
The board said the move addresses one of modern cricket’s biggest challenges — protecting Test cricket while acknowledging the growing influence of franchise leagues around the world. The framework is designed to provide fair opportunities for every type of cricketer without forcing comparisons between players from different formats.
The new structure includes Track AB for dual-format Test and ODI players, Track A for red-ball specialists, Track BC for white-ball cricketers, Track C for T20 and franchise specialists, and Track D for emerging players under the National Cricket Academy system. Players will now compete only against others within their own track, ensuring a more transparent and balanced evaluation process.
One of the most significant features of the policy is the special support offered to Test cricketers. For the first time, dedicated red-ball players will be allowed to participate in overseas first-class competitions to further improve their skills, while franchise T20 leagues will remain restricted for this group.
PCB Chairman Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi described the framework as a forward-looking solution to modern cricket’s challenges, saying Pakistan has chosen to strengthen Test cricket through structural reforms rather than promises.
The new contracting model also introduces a three-stage eligibility process involving medical and fitness assessments, domestic cricket participation, and performance evaluations. According to the PCB, the framework is intended to improve accountability, strengthen domestic cricket and provide players with greater clarity regarding their careers. With this landmark reform, Pakistan has positioned itself at the forefront of cricket administration, setting a model that could influence how player contracts are managed across the world in the future.
