Several star cricketers may have their central contracts placed on hold due to non-participation in domestic first-class matches. 

In this regard, PCB Director High Performance Aaqib Javedstated that even in previous contracts, it was mandatory for players to participate in first-class cricket, but this was not properly implemented.

He emphasized that the system is most important and must be respected by everyone. Until a player fulfills the requirement of playing domestic matches or obtains medical clearance, their contract will remain on hold. 

During this period, they will not be paid, but once they meet the requirements, they will receive their pending dues.

It is worth noting that Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi also do not currently meet the minimum requirement of playing first-class matches.

Aaqib Javed said that contracts will not be awarded based on seniority or reputation; instead, selections will be made on data and performance impact. Fitness will also be a key factor.

He explained that under the A contract, the performance of Test specialists will be evaluated specifically in the Test format. 

This category may include 6 to 8 top performers, and they will be required to play at least 6 first-class matches. 

The fee per Test match is PKR 1.5 million, while for domestic first-class matches they will receive half the fee (PKR 750,000). They will not be allowed to participate in leagues.

Top performers will be divided into Tier 1 and other in Tier 2. Players who play both Tests and ODIs will be placed in the A/B category, which carries the highest value and remuneration. This category will also have two tiers. 

These players must play at least 4 domestic first-class matches and 4 domestic one-day matches, and they will receive half of their international match fee for domestic games. They will be allowed to play one league per year.

Players who participate in ODIs and T20s will be given a B/C contract, also divided into Tier 1 and Tier 2. They will be required to play a minimum of 2 first-class matches, 4 domestic one-day matches, and 6 T20 matches in a season. They will be permitted to play two leagues per year.

The C category will consist of T20 specialist players, though their number will be limited. They will receive the lowest retainer fee, but they will be allowed to play as many leagues as they wish, except when they are on national duty, during which league participation will not be permitted.

Aaqib Javed stated that the Category D development contract is the most important. It will include 16 to 20 young, emerging players (such as those in the Shaheens), who will be paid a monthly salary of PKR 1 million.

On Shaheen Afridi’s Test future, Aaqib Javed said:
You cannot play T20 cricket all year and suddenly bowl 20–25 overs in Test matches after regularly bowling just 4 overs. Players who consistently play four-day cricket and show interest in the format should be prioritized for red-ball cricket.

Captaincy Situation

Aaqib Javed said that after a meeting of all selectors, recommendations for the national captain will be sent to the chairman for final approval. Nothing is clear yet regarding the Test captaincy, and a decision will be made in the coming days.

Regarding Salman Ali Agha’s captaincy in T20s, he said that in modern cricket, it is very difficult for anything to be long-term. He added that a different approach will be needed in T20 cricket, and various options will be discussed. As a captain, the most important thing is to influence other players through your own performance. Discussions on this matter are currently ongoing.

Aaqib Javed said Babar Azam’s inclusion in T20 cricket will depend on available options. He added that young players are being given opportunities, such as in the Asian Games squad, and bold decisions are necessary for future improvement.

He concluded that history will remember whether decisions were made for improvement or influenced by favoritism toward certain players.