Lahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has introduced three new Champions tournaments to its 2024-25 Men’s Domestic Cricket Season, aiming to bridge the gap between domestic and international play. The new additions are expected to enhance the competitive level and provide better earning opportunities for players across the country.

According to Pakistan Cricket Board, the Champions One-Day Cup, Champions T20 Cup, and Champions First-Class Cup will join an expanded roster that includes traditional competitions such as the National T20 Cup and the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. This expansion increases the total number of matches to 261, significantly higher than the 203 organized last season.

The Champions tournaments will feature five teams—Dolphins, Lions, Panthers, Stallions, and Wolves—competing in a double-league format. Each team will draw from a pool of the country’s top performers over the past three years, including centrally contracted players. The initiative also introduces improved contract categories and match fees for players, with top-tier players earning PKR 550,000 monthly.

Noteworthy is the planned integration of former Pakistan cricket stars as mentors and potential team owners, with further details to be announced. Each team will also have a comprehensive support staff and be linked to a dedicated Regional High Performance Centre, enhancing training and practice facilities.

PCB Chair Mohsin Naqvi highlighted that these innovations are designed to replicate the intensity and demands of international cricket, providing Pakistani players with invaluable experience and exposure. The Champions tournaments are part of a broader strategy to revitalize Pakistan’s domestic cricket framework and prepare players for global competition.

The new domestic season is set to commence with the Champions One-Day Cup on September 1, 2024, and conclude with the Champions First-Class Cup on August 5, 2025.