PCB drops Nida Dar, Aliya Riaz from central contracts

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has awarded central contracts to 16 women cricketers for the 2024-25 season, effective from July 1, 2024.

Six players, including Nida Dar, Aliya Riaz, and Shawaal Zulfiqar, have not had their contracts renewed but will remain available for selection, PCB said in a statement.

Key updates include:

• Category A: Fatima Sana, Muneeba Ali, Sidra Amin
• Category B: Nashra Sundhu, Sadia Iqbal
• Category C: Diana Baig, Omaima Sohail

Category D: Ghulam Fatima, Gull Feroza, Najiha Alvi, Rameen Shamim, Sadaf Shamas, Syeda Aroob Shah, Tasmia Rubab, Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani

Three new players, Gull Feroza, Rameen Shamim, and Tasmia Rubab, have earned central contracts. Rubab is notably securing her first contract, while Feroza and Shamim return after a few years.

PCB Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmad Syed highlighted the board’s focus on developing a competitive team and creating opportunities for young cricketers to excel.

The updated contracts reflect this strategy, aiming to inspire future talent.