The PCB and the Pakistan men’s players have reached a landmark agreement on central contracts, ending several months of deadlock and uncertainty.

ESPN Cricinfo says for the first time in Pakistan, three-year contracts have been put in place – rather than the standard 12 months.

There will also be a significant increase in player earnings and a fixed share of revenue from the PCB’s earnings from the ICC.

The agreement comes nearly three months after the most recent central contracts expired on June 30th.

Since then, Pakistan’s players had been playing without receiving any retainers or other financial compensation.

Cricinfo says the PCB offered the players the option to continue the payment structure of the old contracts until the new deal was struck, however the offer was turned down.

As such, the Test series in Sri Lanka, an ODI series against Afghanistan, and the Asia Cup were all played by players without active contracts.

Speaking on the deal, teamcaptain, Babar Azam said, “It is a historic deal. I am extremely happy and satisfied that we have reached an agreement with the PCB. It has been a lengthy and, at times, challenging negotiation process, but I believe we have reached a fair and beneficial agreement for both parties. I would like to extend my special thanks to Chairman Zaka Ashraf for personally overseeing and facilitating these negotiations. He took a personal interest and his commitment to Pakistan cricket is truly commendable. This agreement signifies a new chapter in players’ careers and in Pakistan cricket. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all players towards the game and now we are all geared up ahead of the ICC Men’s World Cup.”

The new contracts have been awarded as follows:

(Featured Photo Credit: Pakistan Cricket Board)