The policy was approved in a meeting chaired by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. Under the new rule, centrally contracted players must play at least one full domestic season in order to be eligible for national team selection.

The purpose of the move is to foster better synergy between seasoned players and emerging talent, while also emphasising the importance of competing at the local level.

Speaking on the occasion, Mohsin Naqvi said that in order to bring Pakistan cricket up to international standards, it is essential for players to polish their skills on home turf.

He stressed that domestic cricket forms the foundation of a strong national team, and the involvement of senior players will provide younger cricketers with invaluable learning opportunities.

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However, some former cricketers and current players — particularly those engaged in various international leagues — have raised concerns. They argue that it will be difficult to strike a balance between earning through league cricket and serving the national cause.

PCB officials, however, have made it clear that the policy will be implemented strictly and without exceptions, as it is designed to ensure a stronger future for Pakistan cricket.

Cricket analysts believe that if the policy is enforced effectively, it could yield long-term benefits — including the discovery and grooming of new talent and the creation of a genuinely competitive environment for national team selection.