PCB Faces Backlash Over Reduced Match Fees as Babar Azam and Naseem Shah Withdraw from T20 Championship

PCB Under Fire: Match Fees Cut Amid Financial Woes

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is currently facing significant backlash following its decision to reduce match fees for players participating in the National T20 Championship. This controversial move has raised eyebrows and led to questions about the board’s financial health. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has ordered a review of the fee cuts after receiving criticism from various cricket circles.

Impact of Cost-Cutting Measures

Reports indicate that the PCB is not only cutting match fees but also implementing various cost-saving measures affecting domestic cricket. These include reductions in travel and hotel standards and the termination of player contracts. Sources within the PCB have suggested that these cuts were necessary due to the addition of several new domestic events that were not initially included in the budget for the season.

Withdrawal of Star Players

Amidst the ongoing turmoil, star players Babar Azam and Naseem Shah have withdrawn from the National T20 Championship. Initially expected to participate after being dropped from the T20 squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand, both players cited workload management and international commitments as reasons for their absence. Babar’s decision, in particular, has drawn attention, especially since he has not played a domestic first-class match since 2020.
Insiders speculate that players like Babar and Naseem may be prioritizing their performances in the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL), which kicks off in mid-April. A strong showing in the PSL could potentially secure their positions back in the national T20 squad.

What’s Next for PCB?

The ongoing issues surrounding the PCB and its domestic cricket operations continue to raise concerns. The abrupt halt of the National Under-19 Championship and the lack of scheduling for the National Junior Championship only add to the scrutiny faced by the board. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the PCB will navigate these challenges moving forward.
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