KARACHI: Poor performance by Pakistani cricketers in the T20 World Cup 2026 has come at a heavy cost, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) imposing fines of PKR 50 lakh (5 million rupees) on each player.
Sources indicate that the decision to impose these penalties was actually finalized immediately after the defeat against India.
According to insiders, PCB officials have made it clear to the players that the era of excessive pampering is over — from now on, financial rewards will only be linked to actual performance.
Pakistan’s campaign in the T20 World Cup began with a narrow escape against the Netherlands in the opening match, followed by a win over the USA.
Given Sri Lanka’s spin-friendly conditions and the presence of quality spinners in the opposition, expectations were high for a strong showing against India.
However, the team suffered the same fate as in their three Asia Cup matches against India — another disappointing loss.
Pakistan went on to defeat Namibia and secured a place in the Super 8 stage.
Their match against New Zealand was washed out due to rain, and they then lost to England, leaving their semi-final qualification hanging in the balance.
England’s victory over New Zealand briefly revived Pakistan’s hopes, but Sri Lanka’s narrow win in their match prevented any significant improvement in Pakistan’s net run rate.
As a result, New Zealand advanced to the semi-finals, bringing Pakistan’s tournament journey to an end.
The team’s underwhelming performance has left both fans and PCB officials deeply disappointed.
Sources reveal that fines of PKR 50 lakh per player have already been deducted in recent days.
Officials have bluntly told the squad that excessive leniency and favoritism are now history — only consistent performance will earn them financial benefits.
Just as players receive bonuses for good performances, they must now face penalties for substandard play.
In fact, the players were informed of this policy decision right after the loss to India.
It is worth noting that national cricketers currently earn millions annually.
Category A players receive a monthly retainer of PKR 4.5 million, along with an ICC revenue share of approximately PKR 2.07 million.
