(Credit PCB)
The PCB is exploring the possibility of launching three distinct tournaments for each cricket format, aiming to bridge the gap in standards between domestic and international cricket.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering the implementation of three separate tournaments catering to each format of the game. This initiative aims to narrow the disparity in standards between domestic and international cricket.
The Pentangular tournament, comprising five teams and involving 150 of the nation’s top players, is set to be introduced. This addition to the existing tournament format is reported by ESPNcricinfo.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is planning to introduce three additional tournaments alongside the existing Quaid-e-Azam Trophy and President’s Trophy for first-class cricket, the National One-Day Cup for 50-over cricket, and the National T20 Cup for T20 cricket. These new tournaments will enhance the domestic cricket calendar and provide more opportunities for players.
While the plans are still in the early stages, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has instructed various PCB departments to ensure the successful launch of these tournaments in the upcoming domestic season.
According to ESPNcricinfo, the proposed tournaments will not follow a franchise model; instead, all teams will be owned by the PCB. Additionally, the teams will not be regionally based; they will be newly formed entities with their own management and coaching setups.
The forthcoming tournament is expected to adopt a double-league format. PCB’s selection committee will play a pivotal role in team selection, allocating a portion of players to each team, with the remaining players chosen by the team’s management.
Previous Pentangular tournaments were held in 2016. In addition to narrowing the gap between domestic and international cricket standards, PCB believes this setup will afford players more opportunities to participate in first-class matches.
However, scheduling remains a challenge for PCB. The domestic season in Pakistan already features two first-class tournaments, a one-day cup, a T20 tournament, and the Pakistan Super League. Complicating matters further, Pakistan has a congested international schedule, with upcoming Test series against Bangladesh and England, an ODI tri-series preceding the 2025 Champions Trophy.
