Scheduling Clash Between PSL and IPL Looms as PCB Reshuffles Domestic Cricket Contracts
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is gearing up for a scheduling clash between the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the upcoming season. According to reports, the PCB is compelled to adjust the dates for its premier T20 league, the PSL, due to a packed international calendar.
As per news agency PTI, the PCB has indicated that the PSL might be held from April 10 to May 25 next year, directly overlapping with the IPL, which was conducted from March 22 to May 26 this year. Traditionally, the PSL is staged in February and March, but the need to accommodate a tri-series hosted by Pakistan, followed by the Champions Trophy and a tour by the West Indies next year, has necessitated a shift in the tournament’s schedule.
“This rescheduling is essential to ensure that the league does not clash with these major international commitments, making the overlap with the IPL unavoidable.”
This change is expected to have significant implications for players, fans, and broadcasters, as the PSL and IPL are two of the most participated T20 leagues globally, and their concurrent schedules could divide viewership and sponsorship interests.
Alongside the announcement of the new PSL dates, the PCB has also revealed a comprehensive overhaul of the monthly retainers for domestic players. The revamped structure will see players being picked for three newly introduced elite tournaments known as the Champions tournaments, spread across five teams. This restructuring aims to enhance the financial well-being of the players and ensure a more competitive domestic cricket environment.
The revised salary structure includes substantial upgrades for 150 players divided into three categories:
- Category 1: 40 players will receive PKR 550,000 per month.
- Category 2: 50 players will be paid PKR 400,000 per month.
- Category 3: 60 players will earn PKR 250,000 per month.
These figures represent a significant increase compared to the previous domestic contracts for the 2023-24 season, which ranged from PKR 50,000 to PKR 300,000, depending on the category.
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