PCB Revamps President's Trophy With Two New Grade I Teams

The Pakistan Cricket Board has made one of its strongest administrative decisions in recent years, removing WAPDA and Sahir Associates from the country's top departmental competitions ahead of the 2026-27 season. The move clears the way for Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) and Kingsmen Academy to enter the President's Trophy and President's Cup Grade I structure.

The decision has already sparked debate across Pakistan domestic cricket, with many viewing it as a warning that reputation alone is no longer enough to secure a place in the country's premier domestic tournaments.

PCB confirmed that WAPDA and Sahir Associates failed to satisfy the board's required standards. Officials stressed that both sporting performance and organizational responsibilities would now carry equal weight. Every participating department must comply with strict professional benchmarks or risk losing its position.

Tougher Standards Set for Grade I Teams

The revised regulations introduce several mandatory requirements. Every Grade I department must follow the PCB fitness policy, ensure timely payment of player contracts, match fees and daily allowances, while also providing quality accommodation and meals during competitions.

Another major reform targets youth development. Every side competing in first-class and List A matches must include at least one Under-21 cricketer in the playing eleven. PCB believes the policy will strengthen the pathway for emerging talent and improve the long-term standard of Pakistan domestic cricket.

The updated Grade I lineup now features SNGPL, KRL, Kingsmen Academy, OGDCL, PTV, Ghani Glass, MIT Solutions and the State Bank of Pakistan.

Senior General Manager of Domestic Cricket Osama Sharoon defended the changes, stating that merit and accountability would remain central to the competition.

He said departmental cricket has historically produced some of Pakistan's finest players, adding that maintaining high standards is essential for future growth.

The latest overhaul also sends a clear message across the domestic circuit. Teams are now expected to meet professional standards away from the field as seriously as they compete on it.

For PCB President's Trophy, the changes mark the beginning of a stricter era where financial discipline, player welfare and development carry the same importance as results. Whether the new framework delivers stronger competition will become clear once the 2026-27 season gets underway.