The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a significant overhaul of its women’s central contracts for the 2024-25 season. The move sees notable exclusions, promotions, and the introduction of new players, reflecting the board’s strategic focus on developing a strong and competitive women’s team.
Key Changes:
- Exclusion of Nida Dar and Aliya Riaz: Two experienced players, former captain Nida Dar and all-rounder Aliya Riaz, have been omitted from the contracts. This decision is part of the PCB’s strategy to invest in younger talent and build a team for the future.
- Promotion of Fatima Sana and Muneeba Ali: The duo has been elevated to Category A, recognizing their contributions to the team.
- New Entrants: Three new players, Gull Feroza, Rameen Shamim, and Tasmia Rubab, have been included in the contracts, indicating a focus on nurturing young talent.
The PCB’s decision to prioritize younger players and invest in their development aligns with the ICC’s Women’s Future Tours Programme (FTP) 2025-29. By providing opportunities for emerging talent, the PCB aims to build a strong foundation for Pakistan women’s cricket in the years to come.
Full List of PCB’s Centrally Contracted Women Players
- 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
While the exclusion of experienced players like Nida Dar and Aliya Riaz has raised eyebrows, the PCB’s focus on youth development and the potential of the new generation of players is a positive step towards the growth of women’s cricket in Pakistan.