The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has drastically reduced match fees for players participating in the upcoming National T20 Cup, sparking debate in the cricketing community. The new match fees stand at PKR 10,000 per match (approx. US$35)—a staggering 75% drop from the previous edition, where players earned PKR 40,000 per match. Just two years ago, in 2022, the amount was even higher at PKR 60,000. Meanwhile, reserve players will receive PKR 5,000 (approx. US$17.50) per match in this edition of the tournament.
A Surprising Decision Amid PCB’s High Spending
This significant cut comes at a time when the PCB, under chairman Mohsin Naqvi, has been making substantial financial commitments. Since assuming office last year, Naqvi emphasized that the PCB’s funds were meant to be spent on players and the development of Pakistan cricket, rather than being “locked away.”
Since then, the board has undertaken expensive but necessary stadium renovations, invested heavily in foreign coaches on lucrative contracts, and hired five mentors at PKR 5 million per month each. Additionally, PCB increased the prize money for a domestic one-day tournament tenfold, further highlighting its willingness to spend.
Not a Financial Concern, Says PCB
Despite the drastic reduction in match fees, a PCB official told ESPNcricinfo that the decision was not driven by financial constraints. Instead, the board believes players now have more earning opportunities through the expansion of Pakistan’s domestic cricket structure.
The PCB introduced new tournaments such as the Champions T20 Cup, held in December 2024 with five elite teams. This format has also been replicated in 50-over and first-class tournaments. Additionally, many cricketers receive monthly salaries from departmental teams participating in competitions like the President’s Trophy, leading the PCB to believe that the drop in match fees does not significantly impact players’ overall earnings.
National T20 Cup: Key Details
The National T20 Cup is set to begin on March 14, featuring 39 matches across three cities—Faisalabad, Lahore, and Multan. The final will take place in Faisalabad on March 27. However, several top Pakistani international cricketers will be absent from the tournament, as the national team is scheduled to tour New Zealand for a five-match T20I series followed by three ODIs.
Backlash and Concerns from Players
While PCB maintains that players’ total earnings remain unaffected, the significant reduction in match fees has raised concerns. Domestic cricket serves as the primary income source for many players who are not part of the national team or major franchise leagues. The drastic pay cut could impact their financial stability, especially for those not contracted by PCB or departments.
Additionally, with T20 leagues growing worldwide, Pakistani cricketers may look for better financial opportunities elsewhere, which could lead to a talent drain in domestic cricket. The move also contradicts PCB’s recent stance on investing in players, making it a controversial decision among fans and analysts.
Conclusion
The PCB’s decision to slash match fees for the National T20 Cup has divided opinions. While the board argues that players have more earning opportunities through an expanded domestic structure, the sharp decline in match fees is a major blow to those relying on domestic cricket for their livelihood. With Pakistan’s cricketing landscape evolving, it remains to be seen whether this move will benefit the game or discourage local players from pursuing domestic cricket.
