PCB Introduces Central Contracts for Pakistan U19 Cricketers

The Pakistan Cricket Board has taken a significant step in its junior cricket structure by introducing central contracts for Under-19 players for the first time.

The decision came after the Pakistan U19 side returned from England with a 3-1 win in the four-match one-day series. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi met the squad following the tour and praised the young cricketers for their performances.

The move gives the players more than just recognition after a successful campaign. It also places greater attention on their progression at a crucial stage of their careers.

Pakistan's U-19 tour had plenty of standout moments. The side opened the ODI series with a 177-run victory at Arundel, where Usman Khan smashed 151 and captain Farhan Yousaf scored 115. The pair put together a huge 268-run partnership for the third wicket. 

England fought back in the third game, winning by only two runs at Wormsley, but Pakistan responded strongly in the final match. They posted 350 for four before bowling England out for 150, sealing a 200-run victory and the series 3-1. Farhan finished unbeaten on 80, while Ahmed Hussain contributed 63 before returning figures of three for 16 with the ball. 

The new Pakistan U19 central contracts were welcomed by head coach Shahid Anwar, who said rewarding strong performances can raise confidence among young players and provide encouragement to the coaching staff.

Captain Farhan Yousaf also pointed to the value of the development work done in Multan over the past two years. The PCB had run an eight-week U19 skills development camp there ahead of the England tour, with 31 players taking part in training and practice matches. 

For the players themselves, the contracts carry a personal significance too. Aliyan Salman said the move would lift confidence and morale, while Jahangir Bilal highlighted the financial support it could provide to young cricketers and their families.

That matters at this level. A player is still trying to establish himself, while also dealing with the pressures that come with competitive cricket. Financial backing can give youngsters more room to focus on training, fitness and performance.

The Pakistan U19 England series has therefore ended with something more lasting than a trophy or a scoreline. The PCB has used the team's performances to put a formal support structure around its junior players.

Pakistan's U19 setup already has a strong recent record, including the ACC U19 Asia Cup title in December 2025 and a tri-series win in Zimbabwe earlier this year. 

Now, the challenge for these youngsters is straightforward. The contracts are recognition of what they have done so far, but the next step will be turning that promise into sustained performances as they move toward senior cricket.