PCB relies on Inzamam to resolve the impasse concerning central contracts

A significant dispute regarding central contracts in Pakistan cricket is reportedly close to a resolution. Chief Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq has engaged in discussions with Zaka Ashraf, Chairman of the PCB Management Committee, aiming to address the issue within the next two days. Inzamam's unique position as the players' agent might be advantageous in persuading them.

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The central issue revolves around players' demands for a share of the revenue received by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) from the International Cricket Council (ICC) and sponsors. This practice is not currently in place in Pakistan and presents implementation challenges. Initially, the PCB offered Category A player's a monthly salary of 45 lakhs, but they were dissatisfied due to substantial tax deductions. The board is considering further salary increases.

Over the past four months, cricketers have not received monthly retainers or match fees from the PCB, but the Board is now actively working to make these payments promptly. While players have protested silently so far, they are contemplating boycotting sponsor-related activities and refusing to participate in promotional events during the upcoming World Cup. Inzamam aims to prevent the situation from escalating to that level.

Players want to resolve the issue themselves, but some officials allegedly discourage them from making agreements due to uncertainty about the current Chairman's tenure. A PCB official hinted at the possibility of positive news emerging by Monday or Tuesday regarding the central contracts. The official stressed the need for players to display flexibility for a successful resolution.

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Pakistan to play two warm-up matches

Amid all the visa issues which are going on it is also be kept in mind that the Pakistan team will be playing two practice matches. Both these practice matches are set to be played at the same venue. Pakistan is scheduled to have its two warm-up matches at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. The first match is set to take place against New Zealand on September 29, with their second and final warm-up game against Australia scheduled for October 3.

Pakistan will be playing their first game in the World Cup 2023 against the Netherlands team in Hyderabad on October 6.