On August 6, 2025, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced new central contracts for 20 national women cricketers, which included a 50% salary increase across all categories to promote and support women’s cricket.
The women’s selection committee, working closely with head coach Mohammad Wasim, finalised the contracts effective from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, which reflects the PCB’s commitment to promoting gender equity in the sport.
The 20 players are divided into five categories based on performance and potential:
- Category A: Includes top-ranked ICC T20I bowler Sadia Iqbal, alongside Fatima Sana, Muneeba Ali, and Sidra Amin, recognising their elite status.
- Category B: Features Aliya Riaz, Diana Baig, and Nashra Sandhu, with Baig promoted from Category C.
- Category C: Solely Rameen Shamim, elevated from Category D.
- Category D: Comprises ten players, including Gull Feroza, Najiha Alvi, and Omaima Sohail.
- Category E: Includes newcomers Eyman Fatima and Shawaal Zulfiqar.
🚨 Pakistan women’s central contracts for the 2025-26 season announced
A total of 20 players have been awarded enhanced contracts for the new cycle 📝
Read more: https://t.co/zVONmNbpcb#BackOurGirls pic.twitter.com/eE0x3GA1sC
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) August 6, 2025New inclusions are Aliya Riaz, Natalia Pervaiz, Sidra Nawaz, Waheeda Akhtar, Eyman Fatima, and Shawaal Zulfiqar, showcasing emerging talent. The promotions of Diana Baig and Rameen Shamim highlight their growing impact.
The contracts come ahead of a packed schedule for the Pakistan women’s team, including the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup (September–October 2025) and the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup (June 2026), alongside multiple bilateral series at home and abroad. The salary hike aims to equip players for these high-stakes events, ensuring financial stability and motivation. The PCB’s investment underscores its goal to elevate women’s cricket globally, building on Pakistan’s growing presence in international competitions.
The increased retainers signal a transformative step for women’s cricket in Pakistan, addressing financial disparities and encouraging professionalism. By recognising both established stars and emerging players, the PCB fosters a competitive environment, potentially inspiring more women to pursue cricket.
