Pakistan cricketers angry after PCB delays salaries for four consecutive months

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly facing criticism as national team players have yet to receive their payments, which have been pending for four months. However, Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi is determined to remain firm in his decision-making without any external pressures.

The PCB announced central contracts to 25 players last year after lengthy negotiations with senior cricketers. Notably, this was the first time players received a three percent share of ICC revenues, along with higher monthly salaries. This came after cricketers urged the board to meet their demands.

The contracts were signed for a three-year period, from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2026. However, the new management decided to review these contracts after just one year due to the team's poor performance. They initially considered reducing player compensation, but this decision was later reconsidered.

Mohsin Naqvi Determined Not To Cave To Any External Pressures

As per Cricket Pakistan, national cricketers are frustrated by the uncertainty surrounding their contracts but feel they lack the power to push for their demands. However, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is standing firm and won't let outside pressures influence his decisions, according to the report.

"Sources indicate that national cricketers are frustrated with the ongoing uncertainty regarding their contracts, yet they feel powerless to push for their demands. Furthermore, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is determined not to cave to any external pressures in his decision-making," reported Cricket Pakistan.

Last year, players successfully pushed the board for a favorable contract before the World Cup. However, the situation has shifted dramatically, as they haven't been paid their monthly salaries for the past four months. The board didn't pay salary from July to October, despite multiple reminders.

Sponsorship payments for the logo on the players' shirts have also been delayed for several months. A player, who chose to remain anonymous, voiced concerns about the team's recent poor performance and suggested that the board has become more assertive in response to these struggles.

No Pakistan Player Will Receive Central Contract If They Fail Fitness Test

Babar Azam led negotiations with the board in the past but his current dip in form has weakened his ability to push for player demands. The report added that the PCB chairman has made it clear that no player, regardless of their status, will receive a central contract if they fail the fitness test.

"Sources indicate that the chairman has firmly instructed that no player, regardless of stature, will receive a central contract if they fail the fitness test. Recently, several prominent players have not passed this test but will be given another opportunity to demonstrate their fitness," added Cricket Pakistan.

The delay in issuing central contracts is due to the formation of a new selection committee. The Champions Cup has caused delays in conducting fitness tests for certain players. The report further added that the contracts are pending finalization and will be effective from July 1 once everything is settled.

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