After cutting down players’ match fees for the National T20 Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has now slashed match fees for first-class matches from Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 30,000—a staggering 62.5% decrease.
Non-playing XI players have also been hit hard, with their match fees reduced to just Rs. 10,000 per match. Additionally, the daily allowance for players has been cut from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 4,000, further compounding the financial strain on domestic cricketers.
The drastic pay cuts have sparked outrage among players and fans, with many questioning the PCB’s priorities. Critics argue that the board’s decisions are devaluing domestic cricket, which serves as the backbone of Pakistan’s cricketing ecosystem.
One frustrated observer noted, “A good tapeball cricketer earns more than this, with free food, travel, etc.”
The PCB has defended its decision by pointing to the increased number of tournaments in the domestic calendar, which they claim provides players with more earning opportunities. However, this explanation has done little to appease critics, who argue that the overall reduction in match fees and allowances undermines the financial stability of players.
The cuts come at a time when the PCB has been criticized for its lavish spending on other initiatives, including high-profile coaching appointments, and expensive stadium upgrades for the recently concluded ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The pay cuts have raised serious concerns about the PCB’s commitment to supporting domestic players. Many believe that these decisions could discourage young talent from pursuing cricket as a career, ultimately weakening the country’s cricketing foundation.
