Mohsin Naqvi's bold move: Pakistan cricket introduces 'Track' contracts, data-first selection model

NEW DELHI: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has overhauled its central contracts structure, replacing the traditional A, B, C and D categories with a new format-based 'Track' system.Under the new model, players will be contracted according to their specialisation across formats. Track A will comprise red-ball specialists, while Tracks B and C will cater to ODI and T20 players. Track D will be reserved for T20 and franchise cricket specialists.

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, alongside white-ball head coach Mike Hesson, announced the changes during a media briefing and said special emphasis had been placed on improving financial incentives for red-ball players.Naqvi said the revised contracts were designed after extensive discussions to ensure players in the longer format do not feel disadvantaged compared to their white-ball counterparts.He added that the new structure would provide players with a clear career pathway and help them understand what is expected in their respective categories."The players' contracts would only be renewed if they come up to all required performance and fitness standards," Naqvi said.

The PCB chief also announced a major change in the selection process, saying that future selections would be based 85 per cent on data analysis and 15 per cent on the recommendations of national selectors.According to Naqvi, the move is aimed at ensuring transparency and merit in team selection while reducing the chances of deserving players being overlooked.The revamped contracts system is part of PCB's broader effort to align Pakistan cricket with the evolving landscape of the international game, where players increasingly specialise in specific formats.