The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made a controversial decision to axe WAPDA and Sahir Associates from the 2026-27 domestic season, citing their inability to comply with new regulations. This move has sparked debate and raised questions about the future of department cricket in Pakistan.
The PCB's regulations, introduced in June, aimed to enhance the quality of cricket and maintain high standards. They empowered the board to audit financial transactions, including monthly salaries and match fees, and mandated year-long player contracts with guidelines for accommodation, daily allowances, and fitness programs. However, the threefold hike in the participation fee to PKR 15 million proved to be a significant sticking point.
WAPDA, one of Pakistan cricket's oldest department teams and current first-class champions, wanted a revision to the fee increase. The PCB's decision to supervise players' contracts, salaries, and match fees may have been a factor in their decision to axe the team. Sahir Associates, another team facing the axe, also struggled to meet the new regulations.
The PCB's move has had a positive impact on OGDCL and Kingsmen Academy. OGDCL, who finished at the bottom in the first-class President's Trophy last season, will now play in the President's Trophy Grade 2 (gold). Kingsmen Academy, who missed out on promotion after losing to MIT Solutions in the final, will now have a chance to progress.
This decision highlights the challenges faced by department cricket in Pakistan. The fee hike and the PCB's increased oversight have created a difficult environment for teams to operate in. It remains to be seen how this will impact the future of the sport and whether other teams will follow suit.
In my opinion, the PCB's decision to axe WAPDA and Sahir Associates is a necessary step to ensure the long-term health of department cricket. However, it also raises questions about the sustainability of the current model. The fee hike and increased oversight may be necessary to maintain standards, but they also risk alienating teams and players. The PCB must carefully consider the implications of this decision and work towards a sustainable solution for the future of department cricket in Pakistan.
