 has decided to scrap the Champions Cup tournament, just a year after its much-hyped launch.){kind=link}
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to scrap the Champions Cup tournament, just a year after its much-hyped launch. Introduced in 2024 with the aim of injecting fresh competitiveness into domestic cricket, the tournament has now been axed from the 2025–26 season calendar.
What’s more, the ambitious mentorship programme featuring some of Pakistan’s biggest cricketing names has also been dissolved.
Big Names, Bold Vision – But Short-Lived
Last year, the PCB had proudly unveiled a star-studded panel of mentors for Champions Cup: Waqar Younis, Saqlain Mushtaq, Misbah-ul-Haq, Shoaib Malik, and Sarfaraz Ahmed.
These five were roped in as team mentors through what was described as a “competitive and transparent” selection process. Each was reportedly handed a three-year contract, worth an impressive Rs five million per month.
It was a bold move. A clear statement of intent to revive the domestic game through experienced guidance and high standards.
What Went Wrong?
Sources close to the development reveal that the board carried out an internal review earlier this year to assess the tournament’s overall impact. The result? The Champions Cup didn’t live up to expectations. The mentorship model, too, was found wanting in terms of tangible returns.
Former captain Shoaib Malik was the first to bow out of his role, and his departure sparked deeper conversations within the board. Before long, the decision was made to part ways with the entire mentor setup.
It’s a major shift in strategy, especially given how recently these changes were introduced with fanfare.
What’s New for 2025–26?
While one tournament disappears, the PCB isn’t hitting pause on domestic cricket. In fact, it’s pushing forward with a restructured calendar that places more weight on performance and competitiveness.
The 2025–26 season will kick off with the Hanif Mohammad Trophy on 15 August, to be played across Karachi, Multan, Bahawalpur and Rahim Yar Khan.
The crown jewel, however, remains the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. Revamped once again, the country’s premier first-class tournament will feature eight teams and begin on 22 September.
The PCB seems to be returning to tried-and-tested formats, while trimming what it sees as excess. Whether this recalibration brings greater clarity and competitiveness, only time will tell.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.