Good News for the Pakistani fans of Sarfraz Ahmed
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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made a noteworthy announcement on Wednesday, revealing the successful negotiation of a substantial three-year central contracts agreement with its senior players. This significant deal is slated to be in effect from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2026, and is set to encompass 25 prominent cricketers within its ambit. What sets this agreement apart is its inclusion of a portion of the International Cricket Council (ICC) revenue, ensuring the players receive a share of the global cricket pie.
However, amidst the roster of senior players, there were conspicuous absences. Test spinners Nauman Ali and Abrar Ahmed were notably omitted from the list, raising questions about the selection process. Additionally, Sarfaraz Ahmed, a former Pakistan captain and an accomplished player, found himself categorized in the D tier, sparking further debates about the fairness of the contract allocation.
In response to these concerns, PCB Management Committee chairman, Zaka Ashraf, appeared on a local news channel to address the matter. He conveyed his assurance that deserving players, whether omitted initially or not, would be duly recognized and incorporated into the central contracts.
Ashraf sought to quell worries surrounding Nauman, Abrar, and Sarfaraz's situation by stating, "If there is any injustice done with Sarfaraz or any other player, there will be rectified." His comments underscored the PCB's commitment to fairness in player selection.
Zaka Ashraf also clarified the decision-making process behind the central contracts, explaining that the selection committee and team management played a pivotal role in determining the list of players who would be awarded these contracts. The PCB's intent to make the process as transparent and equitable as possible was evident in Ashraf's statements.
The central contracts were meticulously divided into four distinct categories, each with its own level of remuneration. Category A featured three players, receiving a substantial 202% increase in their monthly retainers, while Category B comprised six players with a 144% boost. Category C encompassed two players who saw a notable rise of 135%, and the largest group, Category D, consisted of 14 players enjoying a 127% increase. The incorporation of ICC revenue into the overall monthly remuneration made these contracts even more enticing for the selected players.
In conclusion, the PCB's announcement of a three-year central contracts deal marks a significant development in Pakistan cricket. While it has raised questions about player selection and categorization, the commitment to fairness and transparency in the process, as articulated by Zaka Ashraf, is reassuring. The inclusion of ICC revenue in the contracts adds an extra layer of incentive for the players, making these central contracts an important part of their careers and financial stability in the coming years.
