PCB discontinues daily allowance for women cricketers in national camps
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made a controversial decision to discontinue the daily allowances of female cricketers attending national camps. This move has sparked disappointment and frustration among the players. A PCB official justified this action by revealing that the cricket board is now providing accommodation and three full meals each day to these athletes. Here are further details.
Players express dissatisfaction over PCB's decision
The players currently training in Multan for the upcoming home series against South Africa women's team, have expressed their dissatisfaction with PCB's decision. They argue that it is unfair as they have traveled from various parts of Pakistan to participate in the camp. The South African team is already there Multan, preparing for the white-ball series, starting September 17, which serves as a warm-up for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup next month.
Men's team continues to receive daily allowances
Interestingly, the male cricketers of Pakistan continue to receive a daily allowance in addition to accommodation and two full meals each day. This discrepancy has been noted by an insider who stated that until recently, the board used to provide daily allowances to female players as well. The tweak comes at a time when the PCB is investing millions on other projects including monthly salaries for five team mentors and venue renovations.
Spending and potential discontent in women's cricket
The PCB is reportedly spending nearly 12.8 billion on renovating three Test venues before the Champions Trophy next year. A former Pakistan player questioned this decision, stating, "What difference of a few lakh rupees will make to the board is anybody's guess, but it has potential to create discontent in women's cricket." The official from PCB assured that when the women players participate in series matches, they will receive daily allowances.
Women cricketers await central contracts announcement
The female cricketers are also awaiting the announcement of their central contracts, which has been delayed by over a month. Last year, the cricket board awarded central contracts to 19 players. This delay adds to the growing concerns among Pakistan Women regarding PCB's recent decisions and their impact on women's cricket in the country.
