PCB announces three new Champions Tournaments for domestic season

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the introduction of three new champions tournaments for the 2024-25 domestic cricket season, aiming to elevate the game to international standards and provide local players with enhanced exposure and opportunities.

The PCB will launch the Champions Cup One Day, Champions Cup T20, and Champions First Class Cup, covering all formats of the game.

The new season will kick off on September 1 with the Champions Cup One Day tournament.

With the addition of these three champion tournaments, the PCB will now host a total of 261 matches across eight senior men's tournaments.

This includes 131 first-class matches, 40 fifty-over matches, and 97 T20 matches.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, speaking at a press conference, highlighted the importance of these tournaments in aligning Pakistan's domestic cricket with international standards.

"Our current ranking does not reflect Pakistan's true potential. We aim to restore our rightful position. I am very optimistic about the future of Pakistan cricket," he stated.

Naqvi emphasized that the Champions tournaments would bring together the most talented and consistent performers from domestic cricket alongside centrally contracted players, creating an environment mirroring international cricket.

"With broadcast matches, legendary mentors, elite coaching staff, and extensive media coverage, these tournaments will provide our players with the exposure and experience they need," he added.

Additionally, the season will feature a total of 13,000 matches at the pathway and development levels, with an increase in the number of first-class and other matches in the new domestic season.

The PCB has also increased the remuneration and match fees for domestic players. Category One players will now receive Rs550,000, up from Rs300,000 in the previous season.