Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has directed an immediate review of the recent decision to cut match fees for players and reserves participating in the National T20 Cup.
Following widespread concerns from cricketing circles, the PCB is considering reinstating the previous match fee structure, which stood at PKR 40,000 per match for players and PKR 20,000 for reserves. The initial reduction had significantly lowered the payments to PKR 10,000 for players and PKR 5,000 for reserves, marking a steep 75% decrease. However, even with the restoration to PKR 40,000, it remains lower than the PKR 60,000 per match offered in 2022.
The decision to slash match fees had sparked debate, with many questioning whether financial constraints were affecting the board. PCB officials, however, clarified that the move was linked to an expansion in domestic tournaments, providing players with more earning opportunities throughout the season.
The National T20 Cup is set to commence on March 14, featuring 39 matches across Faisalabad, Lahore, and Multan. The final is scheduled for March 27 in Faisalabad. While several of Pakistan’s top international players will miss the tournament due to their commitments in New Zealand for a T20I and ODI series, the event remains a crucial platform for emerging talent.
With the PCB now reconsidering its stance on match fees, an official decision is expected soon, ensuring fair compensation for the players competing in one of the country’s premier domestic tournaments.