Top tier cricketers in Pakistan might make between Rs. 80 million and Rs. 90 million each year through the upcoming central contracts for the 2026-27 period, combining monthly pay, match fees, and additional funds.
Sources speaking to The Express Tribune stated that the Pakistan Cricket Board set aside Rs. 1.1 billion for player salaries and match payments within these proposed agreements spanning from July 2026 to June 2027.
First tier players in Category AB face a proposed monthly retainer of Rs. 4.8 million, totaling Rs. 57.6 million yearly before adding match fees and other sources. Category A Test specialists stand to collect either Rs. 4 million or Rs. 3.6 million every month based on their specific tier.
Monthly earnings for Category BC athletes reach Rs. 3.4 million or Rs. 2.6 million, whereas T20 specialists are designated to get Rs. 2.6 million or Rs. 2 million. Category D members are listed for a monthly amount of Rs. 1 million.
Match fees differ according to player category and match format. Category A athletes obtain Rs. 1.5 million for a Test, Rs. 650,000 for a One-Day International, and Rs. 450,000 for a T20 International.
Category AB participants make Rs. 1.5 million per Test, Rs. 750,000 per ODI, and Rs. 500,000 per T20 International. Category BC individuals collect Rs. 900,000 for Tests alongside identical white-ball fees to Category AB. Category C representatives draw Rs. 700,000 per Test and Rs. 500,000 for either an ODI or a T20 International.
Foreign leagues present paths to much larger incomes. Saim Ayub reportedly brought in Rs. 126 million during one Pakistan Super League season, while athletes joining overseas competitions can pull in Rs. 200 million to Rs. 220 million or higher each year.
Such financial prospects reportedly prompt multiple players to aim for Category C placement, granting better flexibility to secure no-objection certificates for foreign tournaments. Nonetheless, the Pakistan Cricket Board keeps ultimate authority over player groupings and guidelines for playing abroad.
