The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially unveiled the 2025-26 central contracts for women cricketers, introducing a significant 50% increase in player compensation across all categories. The new contract structure is part of the PCB’s ongoing efforts to invest in and uplift women’s cricket in Pakistan.
Five-Tier Contract Structure Introduced
In this latest announcement, women players have been divided into five categories: A, B, C, D, and a newly introduced Emerging Category. The classification is based on players’ performances, experience, and future potential.
This structured approach aims to recognize top-performing cricketers while also supporting emerging talents who represent the future of Pakistan women’s cricket.
Category A: Top Performers Rewarded
The top tier, Category A, features some of the most consistent and high-impact performers in the women’s national team. The players in this category include:
- Sadia Iqbal – Currently ranked as the No. 1 bowler in the ICC T20I rankings.
- Fatima Sana – An all-rounder known for her pace and performance on international stages.
- Muneeba Ali – A dynamic top-order batter with recent match-winning knocks.
- Sidra Ameen – One of Pakistan’s most reliable batters in both formats.
These players have been rewarded for their continued excellence and are expected to be the cornerstone of future campaigns.
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Category B and C: Experienced Core
Category B features experienced campaigners who continue to contribute significantly to the national setup. This group includes:
- Aliya Riaz
- Diana Baig
- Nashra Sandhu
Meanwhile, Category C includes a single player:
- Rameen Shamim, a promising spinner with potential to make a comeback to the main squad.
Category D: Strengthening Squad Depth
Ten players have been awarded contracts in Category D, which is aimed at strengthening bench strength and squad depth. These players include:
- Gul Feroza
- Najia Alvi
- Natalia Pervaiz
- Omaima Sohail
- Sadaf Shamas
- Sidra Nawaz
- Aroob Shah
- Tuba Hassan
- Umm-e-Hani
- Waheeda Akhtar
This group represents a mix of youth and experience, giving selectors flexibility in squad composition for future tours and tournaments.
Emerging Category: Investing in Future Stars
For the first time, the PCB has introduced an Emerging Category in women’s central contracts, aimed specifically at nurturing rising stars. The two cricketers awarded in this category are:
- Eyman Fatima
- Shawaal Zulfiqar
Both are promising young talents who have shown strong performances in domestic cricket and age-level competitions. The board’s decision to invest in these players reflects a strategic focus on long-term development.
A Progressive Step for Women’s Cricket in Pakistan
This comprehensive update to the central contract system reflects PCB’s commitment to supporting women’s cricket with tangible improvements — not only in pay but also in structure and development pathways. The 50% increase in salaries is a landmark step that aligns Pakistan more closely with global standards in women’s cricket.
With renewed backing, improved financial stability, and a clearer growth path, the future looks bright for the women’s game in Pakistan.
