(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
PCB Announces Central Contracts for Pakistan Women’s Cricket Team (2025-26) with 50% Pay Increase
In a significant move to strengthen women’s cricket in Pakistan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled its central contract list for the 2025-26 season, highlighting a balanced focus on experienced performers and up-and-coming talent.
Major Boost in Player Retainers
The latest announcement includes a 50% increase in player retainers across all categories, a clear indicator of PCB’s ongoing efforts to support and uplift the national women’s team. The central contracts cover the period from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and include a total of 20 players categorized into five tiers — from Category A to the newly introduced Category E for emerging talent.
Key Players Earn Top Contracts
Leading the pack in Category A are captain Fatima Sana, wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali, top-order batter Sidra Amin, and world-ranked T20I bowler Sadia Iqbal — all of whom have been instrumental in Pakistan’s recent performances on the international stage.
Full List: Pakistan Women’s Central Contracts 2025-26
| Category | Players |
|---|---|
| A | Fatima Sana, Muneeba Ali, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Amin |
| B | Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, Nashra Sundhu |
| C | Rameen Shamim |
| D | Gull Feroza, Najiha Alvi, Natalia Parvaiz (new), Omaima Sohail, Sadaf Shamas, Sidra Nawaz (new), Syeda Aroob Shah, Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani, Waheeda Akhtar (new) |
| E (Emerging) | Eyman Fatima, Shawaal Zulfiqar |
Strategic Focus Ahead of Major ICC Events
This contract renewal comes at a pivotal time for the national team, with two ICC global tournaments on the horizon:
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ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup (September–October 2025)
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ICC Women’s T20 World Cup (June 2026)
Additionally, the team is scheduled for several bilateral series throughout the year, adding to a packed and competitive calendar.
Category E: Nurturing the Future Stars
The PCB has introduced Category E to recognize and support emerging cricketers. Promising talents Eyman Fatima and Shawaal Zulfiqar have become the first recipients, signaling the board’s intent to build long-term depth and sustainability in women’s cricket.
A Clear Step Forward
With improved pay structures, expanded player development pathways, and a proactive approach to international competition, the PCB’s investment in women’s cricket marks a major milestone. As the global stage awaits, Pakistan’s women’s team is better positioned than ever to compete, grow, and inspire the next generation of athletes.
