The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to introduce central contracts for the national Under-19 team for the first time, following the team’s recent performances in England.
The decision was announced after members of the Pakistan Under-19 squad met PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The move will provide the young players with formal contracts at Under-19 level, according to the PCB.
Central Contracts for Young Cricketers
Pakistan Under-19 head coach Shahid Anwar welcomed the decision, saying the contracts would encourage young players to continue improving their performances.
He said recognition after strong performances can boost the confidence of emerging cricketers, while the PCB chairman’s support would also encourage the players and coaching staff.
The Under-19 head coach and players thanked Naqvi for the decision following their meeting.
Captain Welcomes First-Ever Contracts
Pakistan Under-19 captain Farhan Yousaf said the players benefited from the Under-19 development camps held in Multan and that the programme had produced positive results over the past two years.
He described the meeting with the PCB chairman as encouraging and said receiving central contracts at Under-19 level for the first time was a positive development for the players.
Other members of the squad said the contracts would provide greater confidence and allow young cricketers to focus more closely on their development while also helping them provide financial support to their families.
The Pakistan Under-19 team recently won its Youth ODI series in England, a result that preceded the PCB’s decision to introduce the new contracts.