Pakistan’s women’s cricket team has faced a reduction in allowances during their ongoing training camp in Multan, sparking disappointment among players. The team, preparing for three T20I matches against South Africa, will only receive allowances once the series commences.
This change in policy contrasts with previous camps and the treatment of the men’s national team. In the past, the women’s team received modest daily allowances at training camps. However, this time, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is providing accommodation and three meals, which were not previously offered.
According to a PCB official, the board’s policy dictates that no daily allowances are provided if three meals and hotel accommodation are available. While this policy applies to both the men’s and women’s teams, it is rarely enforced for the men.
During the recent men’s training camp, players received daily allowances in addition to accommodation and food. This compensation was considered in lieu of three free meals, which were not provided. In previous camps, the men’s side has almost always received daily allowances, even when meals were available.
The reason for the change in meal and allowance structure for the women’s team is unclear. At a previous camp in April, the team received both daily allowances and three full meals. However, the PCB has since deemed financial recompense unnecessary if three meals are provided.
This change has left many women’s players disappointed, as they believe being away from home for a camp warrants more than just basic lodging and food. The situation is particularly concerning as the team prepares for the Women’s T20 World Cup next month.
The PCB’s decision comes at a time when its expenditure in other areas of the game is at an all-time high. Stadium upgrades, including the rebuilding of Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and the renovation of National Stadium in Karachi, are believed to have cost billions of rupees.
Additionally, the ongoing Champions One-Day Cup has seen a significant financial outlay, with prize money nearly ten times higher than last year. Mentors for the five teams are also receiving substantial salaries.
Meanwhile, the women’s central and domestic contracts remain unfinalized. Last year, 19 women were awarded central contracts, but they were due for assessment after 12 months. Six weeks have passed since that assessment date, but no revisions have been announced.
