Pakistan players face heavy fines after India defeat and disappointing World Cup campaign

Pakistan’s underperforming men’s cricketers are to face a hefty fine of five million Pakistani rupees (approximately USD 18,000) following their disappointing campaign and Super Eight exit in the World Cup in Sri Lanka, according to a report.

Sources told Telecom Asia Sport that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has conveyed its displeasure to the players, indicating that poor performances will attract financial penalties.

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“PCB has conveyed to the players that they receive substantial amounts through central contracts and endorsement deals. Therefore, poor performances will result in fines to the tune of five million Pakistan rupees,” the source was quoted as saying.

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi was reportedly present at the February 15 clash against India and was unhappy with the team’s performance and certain tactical decisions. According to sources, the decision to bowl first at a venue where batting first had proven advantageous, along with lapses in handling pressure during a high-stakes India encounter, contributed to the board’s frustration.

“Naqvi was in the stadium and noticed how the team wilted under pressure. There were questionable decisions, and the players failed to cope with the intensity of an India game,” the source added.

The report further stated that this could mark an unprecedented disciplinary step, with the PCB chief determined to take firm action after a string of underwhelming performances, including early exits from the 2024 World Cup and the Champions Trophy last year. While some reports suggest that the fine has already been imposed on each player, official confirmation is still awaited.

Following the team’s failure in the Champions Trophy, Pakistan cricketers were also demoted in the central contract structure, with no player placed in the top A category.

Under the current structure, A-category players earn a monthly salary of 4.5 million rupees along with 2.07 million rupees from ICC revenue share. B-category players receive three million rupees per month plus 1.5525 million rupees from the ICC share. C-category players are paid one million rupees monthly along with 1.035 million rupees from ICC revenue, while D-category players earn 750,000 rupees per month in addition to 517,500 rupees from ICC share.