LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to introduce central contracts for Pakistan Under-19 players for the first time, rewarding promising young cricketers and strengthening the country’s pathway from junior to senior-level cricket.
Encouraging step from @TheRealPCB announcing central contracts for U-19 players 👍🏼👏🏼.
Should also planned better for all 18 regional U19 players by providing them financial support & professional opportunities. Best wishes pic.twitter.com/CoTgd9fBJw— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) September 21, 2026
The decision was announced after PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met the Pakistan Under-19 squad following their impressive tour of England, where the young side won the four-match one-day series 3-1.
During the meeting, Naqvi interacted with the players individually, praised their performances and urged them to maintain their hard work and continue developing their cricketing careers.
Central contracts introduced at U19 level for the first time 💫
Pakistan U19 head coach Shahid Anwar, captain Farhan Yousaf and players reflect on their meeting with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi following the England tour 🏏
The players share how these contracts will strengthen… pic.twitter.com/nlgEGFq8uo
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) September 21, 2026
Rewarding emerging talent
Pakistan Under-19 head coach Shahid Anwar welcomed the introduction of central contracts at the junior level, saying the initiative would motivate young cricketers to improve their performances.
“Rewarding good performances boosts the confidence of young players, while the encouragement from the PCB chairman is a source of strength for both the players and coaching staff,” Shahid said.
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Under-19 captain Farhan Yousuf also credited the development camps held in Multan over the past two years for contributing to the team’s progress.
He said the camps had produced positive results and described the meeting with Naqvi as encouraging for the players.
Farhan added that receiving central contracts at the Under-19 level for the first time was a source of great happiness for the squad.
Young players welcome central contracts
Young cricketer Aliyan Salman said the contracts would boost the players’ confidence and morale while allowing them to concentrate more closely on their cricket.
Jahangir Bilal said the initiative would also help young cricketers provide financial support to their families.
Meanwhile, Rizwanullah thanked Naqvi and the PCB for the announcement, saying the rewards and central contracts would provide significant encouragement to the emerging players.
Read Also: Pakistan U19 Heroes Welcomed Home After Asia Cup Victory
The move marks a new step in the PCB’s efforts to recognise performances at the junior level while creating stronger incentives for young cricketers seeking to progress into Pakistan’s senior team.
