Lahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled the central contracts for 25 men’s cricketers for the upcoming 2024-25 international cricket season. Starting from July 1, 2024, these contracts reflect a structured agreement between the players and PCB established last year for a three-year term. Notably, this year’s list includes five new cricketers receiving central contracts for the first time, spotlighting the board’s effort to nurture emerging talent.

According to Pakistan Cricket Board, the contracts aim to incentivize and reward the country’s cricket talent, with a significant focus on emerging players who have shown potential in recent times. Among the newcomers awarded contracts are Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Muhammad Irfan Khan, and Usman Khan, all of whom have been categorized under Category D.

The central contracts are classified into four categories, with Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan occupying the top tier in Category A. Category B includes prominent players like Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Shan Masood. The nine players in Category C comprise Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, and Shadab Khan. Lastly, Category D features the new entrants alongside Aamir Jamal, Haseebullah, Kamran Ghulam, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Hurraira, and Mohammad Wasim Jnr.

These contracts underline PCB’s strategic vision to strengthen the national team’s foundation by integrating a blend of experienced players and fresh talent, ensuring a robust pipeline for Pakistan’s cricketing future.