PCB slashes match fee of domestic players after reports of suffering loses during Champions Trophy 2025

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has significantly reduced the match fees for players participating in the upcoming National T20 Cup, slashing payments by 75% compared to last year.

The drastic pay cut comes in the wake of financial losses incurred during the Champions Trophy 2025, where PCB reportedly suffered losses worth billions due to India's decision to play all their matches in Dubai instead of Pakistan.

According to reports, players will now earn PKR 10,000 per match, a sharp decline from PKR 40,000 in the previous edition. Reserve players will receive only PKR 5,000. Just three years ago, the match fee stood at PKR 60,000, highlighting the steep fall in earnings for domestic cricketers. The decision is a stark contrast to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi's earlier claims of investing heavily in cricket infrastructure and player development.

PCB's Financial Struggles After Champions Trophy 2025

Pakistan was originally scheduled to host the Champions Trophy, marking the first ICC event in the country in 29 years. However, India's refusal to play in Pakistan due to security concerns led to their matches, including the final, being shifted to Dubai. This decision reportedly cost the PCB approximately PKR 195 crore, as they had invested heavily in stadium renovations in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi in anticipation of the tournament.

Moreover, poor ticket sales, rain-affected matches, and the subsequent need to refund tickets further deepened PCB's financial troubles. With mounting expenses and lower-than-expected revenue from the tournament, the board now seems to be cutting costs through domestic cricket.

A PCB official clarified that the reduction in match fees is not directly linked to financial concerns. Instead, the board argues that with more domestic tournaments being added to the calendar, players now have increased earning opportunities. However, the sharp reduction in fees has raised concerns among domestic cricketers, many of whom rely on domestic tournaments for their livelihood.

While PCB has been spending on foreign coaches, high-profile mentors, and stadium renovations, the pay cut for local players has drawn criticism. With the National T20 Cup set to begin on March 14, players will now have to contend with significantly lower earnings, reflecting the financial strain on Pakistan cricket.