Proposed Central Contracts Could Pay Top Cricketers Rs. 8-9 Crore
Top-category players could earn up to Rs. 8-9 crore a year if the proposed contracts are finalised.
Pakistan's proposed 2026-27 central contracts could see top-category cricketers earn up to Rs. 8-9 crore a year, including retainers and match fees. The new central contracts have not yet been finalised.
In this article we set out the figures that are proposed, the sum that is only reported, and what is still open. Here is everything you need to know.
What the central contracts could pay
The annual figure of up to Rs. 8-9 crore is for top-category players, and it includes retainers and match fees. The PCB has reportedly allocated Rs. 1.1 billion for players' retainers and match payments. Overseas leagues could offer some players even more. No player is named, and no monthly breakdown is given.
Because the contracts are not final, these sums are not yet what anyone is being paid.
Why it matters
A retainer plus match fees is the package being discussed for the top category. The reported Rs. 1.1 billion is the pool for retainers and match payments, not a sum already confirmed as signed off. Players who also have overseas deals could still earn more outside this structure.
- The contracts are proposed for 2026-27
- Top-category pay could reach Rs. 8-9 crore a year
- Retainers and match fees are both included in that figure
- Rs. 1.1 billion is reportedly allocated for those payments
- The contracts are not final
- Overseas leagues could pay some players more
What this proposal leaves open
- Which players would be in the top category.
- A monthly or per-match split.
- A date when the contracts will be signed.
- Confirmation of the Rs. 1.1 billion figure beyond what is reported.
What happens next
The contracts still have to be finalised. We will update this article if the PCB publishes the categories or confirms the allocation.
Our verdict
Proposed 2026-27 central contracts could pay top-category cricketers up to Rs. 8-9 crore a year, including retainers and match fees. The PCB has reportedly allocated Rs. 1.1 billion, and the deals are not final.
Follow for more updates.
Frequently asked questions
How much could a top-category player earn?
Up to Rs. 8-9 crore a year, including retainers and match fees.
Is that final?
No. The new contracts have not yet been finalised.
What has the PCB reportedly allocated?
Rs. 1.1 billion for players' retainers and match payments.
Could anyone earn more?
Overseas leagues could offer some players even higher earnings.
Written by
Enable PakistanGet stories like this in your inbox
The day's top stories, every morning. Free, unsubscribe any time.
