The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed its updated list of central contracts for the 2024-25 season, effective from July 1, 2024, for 16 women cricketers. This marks a shift towards rewarding performance and promoting emerging talent following the conclusion of the 2023-24 season.
Unlike last year, which saw 20 players receiving two-year contracts, the new list reflects a recalibration with a smaller pool of contracted players, introducing new faces and reshuffling categories based on recent performances.
Big Promotions for Key Performers:
- Fatima Sana, the team captain, and Muneeba Ali, the wicketkeeper-batter, have been promoted to Category A, recognizing their consistency and growing influence in the team.
- Sadia Iqbal, the left-arm spinner, has been elevated to Category B, reflecting her solid performances and rise in Pakistan’s bowling ranks.
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New Faces and Returns:
Three players have been added to the central contracts list:
- Tasmia Rubab: A first-time inclusion in the central contracts.
- Rameen Shamim: Rejoining the roster for the first time since 2018.
- Gull Feroza: Returning after last being contracted in the 2022-23 season.
These inclusions reflect the PCB’s focus on nurturing promising talent ahead of an action-packed international schedule.
Notable Omissions:
Six players, including senior pros like Nida Dar, Aliya Riaz, and Sidra Nawaz, have not received contracts for the 2024-25 season. However, the PCB has stated that these players remain available for selection, aligning with a strategic focus on developing younger talent in preparation for the ICC Women’s Future Tours Programme 2025-29.
PCB Women’s Central Contract List:
Category A:
- Fatima Sana
- Muneeba Ali
- Sidra Amin
Category B:
- Nashra Sundhu
- Sadia Iqbal
Category C:
- Diana Baig
- Omaima Sohail
Category D:
- Ghulam Fatima
- Gull Feroza
- Najiha Alvi
- Rameen Shamim
- Sadaf Shamas
- Syeda Aroob Shah
- Tasmia Rubab
- Tuba Hassan
- Umm-e-Hani
With a busy international calendar ahead, the PCB’s revamped central contract system aims to strike a balance between fostering new talent and ensuring sustained high performance. The focus on women’s cricket signals a positive outlook for the sport’s future in Pakistan.
