The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has recently introduced significant changes to its financial structure, affecting both players and mentors. While centrally contracted players face pay cuts, mentors associated with the now-defunct Champions Cup continue to receive their full salaries.
Mentors' Continued Salaries
In 2024, the PCB appointed five former cricketers—Misbah-ul-Haq, Saqlain Mushtaq, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shoaib Malik, and Waqar Younis—as mentors for the Champions Cup, each receiving a monthly salary of PKR 5 million. Following the cancellation of the tournament, Shoaib Malik resigned, but the remaining four mentors continue to draw their salaries. Under their contracts, they are entitled to four months' salary, during which time the board may still assign them work. The PCB has sent termination letters to Saqlain Mushtaq and Waqar Younis, but they will receive their full salaries during the notice period. Sarfaraz Ahmed and Misbah-ul-Haq have been retained by the board on a permanent basis, though they have not been given new responsibilities yet. Sources indicate that their monthly salaries might be reduced, and they have already been verbally informed about this.
Players' Pay Cuts
In contrast, the PCB has decided to implement pay cuts for centrally contracted players. The new central contracts for the 2025-26 season are expected to feature significant reshuffling, with several players set to be dropped and new players likely to be included. Discussions over the new contracts have entered the final stages, with consultations already held with coaches, the director of high performance, the finance department, and the international cricket department. Players who are no longer part of any of the three formats are almost certain to be excluded. The current three-year financial model for central contracts is now in its final year, and the PCB will announce the new contracts officially after receiving approval from PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
Public Reaction
The PCB's decision to continue paying mentors their full salaries while implementing pay cuts for players has sparked criticism among fans and former cricketers. Many question the rationale behind paying substantial amounts to mentors who are not actively contributing, while players who are actively representing the country face financial reductions. The situation has led to discussions about the PCB's financial priorities and the need for transparency in its decision-making processes.
The PCB's approach to financial management has raised eyebrows, particularly regarding the disparity between the treatment of players and mentors. As the board moves forward with restructuring contracts and financial allocations, it will be crucial to address these concerns to maintain the trust and morale of the players and the cricketing community at large.