In a major decision, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dropped WAPDA and Sahir Associates from the Presidents Trophy and Presidents Cup for the 2026-27 domestic season. Following this administrative decision, both traditional departmental teams will not be able to participate in First Class and List A competitions. Discussions have started in cricket circles in Lahore and across the country as to how this move will affect the players who have been representing these institutions for years.

Reasons for dropping teams

The Board has long been working to replace the domestic circuit in favor of regional associations and select corporate bodies. WAPDA has given many big names to domestic cricket and has excelled in domestic tournaments for a long time. Sahir Associates also had a place in the domestic structure but due to new policies and restructuring of the structure on commercial basis, the scope for these traditional institutions is getting limited.

  • Shortening the calendar to improve TV broadcasts and quality
  • Promoting regional talent instead of departmental monopoly
  • Inclusion of new corporate bodies like OGDC in the first tier

Potential impact on players and staff

With this decision, the future of dozens of professional cricketers has become uncertain. Departmental teams offered players permanent jobs, salaries and medical facilities that were not always available in regional contracts. Affected players will now have to turn to regional sides for trials and drafts to secure contracts for the coming season.

What should fans and players do now?

If you are a fan of domestic cricket, keep a close eye on the upcoming PCB draft and transfer window. Players whose contracts are expiring should contact the respective regions immediately so that they can secure their place before the overseas competition.

What to watch in the next few weeks?

A response from the sports boards of these institutions is expected in the coming days. Apart from this, it has to be seen whether the affected institutions take the legal route against this decision or not.