Pakistan Cricket Board is moving toward creating separate squads for Test, ODI and T20 cricket, with new format-based central contracts serving as the first step, according to PCB High Performance Director Aaqib Javed.
Speaking in Lahore, Aaqib said Test and T20 cricket require completely different skill sets, making separate teams necessary in the near future.
Under the new system, players will be evaluated and paid according to the formats they specialize in, ending the previous practice where Test-only players were compared with T20 specialists.
Top-performing Test cricketers could earn up to PKR 4 million monthly, while salaries across categories may rise to PKR 4.8 million based on performance.
Eligibility for contracts will depend on domestic participation. Test specialists must play 6 first-class matches, while mixed-format players will need additional List A and T20 appearances depending on category.
The PCB also plans to restrict players’ focus to their designated formats, encouraging specialization instead of allowing players to switch freely between formats after long absences.
A new D Category, featuring 16–20 developing players, will receive special attention to prepare future specialists for each format.
Aaqib Javed also confirmed changes are expected in Pakistan’s T20 squad ahead of the upcoming Asia Cup, stressing that central contracts are linked directly to both international and domestic cricket commitment.
