Pakistan women’s central contracts unveiled

Pakistan Women’s Cricket Team. — PCB/File

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced central contracts for 16 women cricketers for the 2024-25 international season, effective from 1 July 2024. These contracts are the result of an annual performance review, said a PCB official.

Previously, 20 players had been contracted for a two-year term, with a provision for a performance reassessment after the 2023-24 season.

Former captain Nida Dar and all-rounder Aliya Riaz were left out of the list of central contracts for the 2024-25 international season while Aliya, Anosha Nasir, Eyman Fatima, Shawaal Zulfiqar and Sidra Nawaz also failed to impress the authorities for the reward. However, three players – Gull Feroza, Rameen Shamim and Tasmia Rubab are the new to the list of contractees.

Pakistan captain Fatima Sana and wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali have been promoted to Category A, recognizing their exceptional performances and rising prominence. Left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal has moved up to Category B, further solidifying her position in the team.

This year’s contracts also feature three new names: Gull Feroza, Rameen Shamim, and Tasmia Rubab. For Tasmia, this marks her debut on the central contract list—a significant achievement in her career. Meanwhile, Rameen and Gull have returned to the list after last being contracted in 2018 and 2022-23, respectively.

However, the contracts for Aliya Riaz, Anosha Nasir, Eyman Fatima, Nida Dar, Shawaal Zulfiqar, and Sidra Nawaz have not been renewed. These players remain eligible for future selection as the PCB aims to groom emerging talent in line with the ICC Women’s Future Tours Programme 2025-29.

In a statement, PCB Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmad Syed said: “On behalf of the PCB, I extend warm congratulations to Fatima Sana, Muneeba Ali, and Sadia Iqbal for their well-deserved promotions.

A special acknowledgment goes to Tasmia Rubab for earning her first central contract—a milestone achievement. Additionally, the return of Gull Feroza and Rameen Shamim underscores our commitment to recognizing consistent performers.