PCB Pays Millions to Inactive Mentors Amid Contract Shake-Up
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is once again in the spotlight as it continues to pay hefty salaries to former cricketers who no longer hold active roles. Despite discontinuing its Champions Cup initiative, four mentors—appointed specifically for the project—are still receiving their monthly paychecks. This comes at a time when the PCB is also preparing a major overhaul of PCB for national players.
Former Mentors Still Receiving PKR 5 Million Monthly
In a controversial move last year, appointed five high-profile former players—Shoaib Malik, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Misbah-ul-Haq, Waqar Younis, and Saqlain Mushtaq—as mentors for the newly launched Champions Cup. Each was offered a lucrative monthly salary of PKR 5 million.
However, with the discontinuation of the Champions Cup, these mentoring roles have effectively ended. Shoaib Malik resigned voluntarily, but the remaining four continue to be compensated handsomely.
Termination Letters Sent, Yet Salaries Continue
Sources confirm that Saqlain Mushtaq and Waqar Younis have received official termination letters. However, their contracts entitle them to four months’ salary post-termination. This clause allows the PCB to reassign them during that period, though no such duties have been reported.
Meanwhile, Misbah-ul-Haq and Sarfaraz Ahmed have been retained permanently by the PCB, albeit with no current assignments. Internal discussions suggest a likely reduction in their monthly compensation. They have reportedly been informed verbally of this adjustment.
Table: Current Status of PCB Appointed Mentors
| Mentor | Current Status | Monthly Salary | Termination Sent | Reassigned Work |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shoaib Malik | Resigned | None | Not Applicable | No |
| Waqar Younis | Terminated, on 4-month pay | PKR 5 million | Yes | Not Yet |
| Saqlain Mushtaq | Terminated, on 4-month pay | PKR 5 million | Yes | Not Yet |
| Misbah-ul-Haq | Retained, no duties | PKR 5 million | No | No |
| Sarfaraz Ahmed | Retained, no duties | PKR 5 million | No | No |
Public Criticism Over Excessive Salaries
The public and cricket analysts have raised serious concerns about the mentors’ salaries, especially given their inactivity. Critics argue that paying PKR 5 million per month without any performance expectations or visible output is unjustified.
Initially, PCB waited for voluntary resignations, but none occurred—likely due to the contractual clause guaranteeing four months’ salary in the event of early termination. Eventually, the board moved forward with partial terminations while trying to restructure remaining roles.
PCB Contracts Overhaul Underway for National Players
Simultaneously, PCB is finalizing a new structure for central contracts, expected to introduce sweeping changes for national cricketers. The current three-year financial model ends this year, and the next phase is being prepared with input from multiple departments.
Sources indicate major reshuffling in Category D, with a mix of contract expirations and new inclusions.
Expected Exclusions and Inclusions
Players like Aamir Jamal, Mohammad Huraira, Haseebullah, Usman Khan, and Mohammad Ali are reportedly on the chopping block. In contrast, new contracts are likely for:
- Hasan Nawaz
- Mohammad Haris
- Sufyan Muqeem
- Hasan Ali
- Faheem Ashraf
- Fakhar Zaman
Additional Names Under Review
The names Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Nawaz, and Sahibzada Farhan are also under consideration. Final decisions will be made following a series of internal consultations.
New Squad Formation for Asia Cup and UAE Tri-Series
In another major development, the PCB is preparing its squad for two upcoming events—the T20I Tri-Series in UAE and the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025. The selection committee, led by Salman Ali Agha (T20 captain) and head coach Mike Hesson, is planning to finalize a squad of 18 players, up from the usual 15.
Emerging Talent on the Radar
Young fast bowlers Salman Mirza and Ahmed Daniyal are strong contenders for selection. The final squad list will be submitted to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi for approval, with an official announcement expected within 72 hours.
Implications of Financial and Contractual Decisions
This dual development—paying inactive mentors and restructuring central contracts—raises questions about the board’s financial planning and operational strategy. While trimming the player contract list and integrating new talent reflect a forward-thinking approach, continued payments to non-functioning mentors cast a shadow over accountability and resource allocation.
Internal Link:
Read more about recent PCB controversies
External Link:
View original report on PCB mentor payments – Reuters
Conclusion
As the PCB navigates its complex web of legacy contracts, financial obligations, and evolving squad requirements, public scrutiny continues to mount. The board’s next steps—particularly how it handles contract renewals and mentor compensations—could significantly shape its credibility and the future of cricket in Pakistan.
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