Pakistan Women’s Cricket Central Contracts 2024-25 Announced

LAHORE – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has recently made significant changes to its central contracts for women cricketers, announcing a new list for the 2024-25 international season. This decision comes after an annual performance review, which is a standard practice to ensure that players are rewarded based on their recent performances. Last year, the PCB had awarded contracts to 20 players for a two-year period, but this year, the focus has shifted to a more selective approach, with only 16 players receiving contracts.

Among the notable changes, Pakistan captain Fatima Sana and wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali have been promoted to Category A, a recognition of their outstanding contributions to the team. Additionally, left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal has moved up to Category B, showcasing her growing importance in the squad. This elevation not only highlights their hard work but also sets a benchmark for other players.

The PCB has also welcomed three new players into the central contract list: Gull Feroza, Rameen Shamim, and Tasmia Rubab. Tasmia's inclusion is particularly noteworthy as it marks her first central contract, a significant achievement in her cricketing journey. Meanwhile, Rameen and Gull are making a comeback to the contract list after several years, with Rameen last being contracted in 2018 and Gull in the 2022-23 season.

However, not all news is positive, as the contracts of several experienced players, including Nida Dar, Aliya Riaz, and Anosha Nasir, have not been renewed. Despite this, the PCB has assured that these players will still be available for selection, indicating a shift in focus towards nurturing younger talent. This aligns with the PCB's commitment to developing the next generation of cricketers in accordance with the ICC Women’s Future Tours Programme for 2025-29.

PCB Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmad Syed expressed his congratulations to the promoted players and emphasized the board's dedication to recognizing consistent performances. He stated, "The 2024-25 central contracts reflect our forward-looking strategy as we prepare for the new ICC Women’s Future Tours Programme. By further investing in established players through significantly enhanced retainers and offering clear pathways to the emerging cricketer, we aim to strike a balance between nurturing future stars and sustaining competitiveness at the highest level."

This strategic move by the PCB not only aims to reward current players but also serves as an inspiration for young cricketers aspiring to make their mark in the sport. Women’s cricket is increasingly becoming a vital part of the PCB's broader development strategy, and the board is committed to providing resources and opportunities for women cricketers to excel. As the landscape of women's cricket continues to evolve, these contracts are a step towards ensuring that the future of the game remains bright and competitive.