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In a surprising move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided not to award any player a Category A central contract for the 2025–26 season. The announcement, made on August 19, marks a major policy shift that puts current performance above past reputation. This is the first time in years that the top tier of PCB's central contract list has been left vacant.
Instead, the board has named 30 players across three categories — B, C, and D — with ten players in each group. This restructuring follows Pakistan’s underwhelming run in recent tournaments, including the T20 World Cup and bilateral series. According to the PCB, no player delivered performances consistent enough to earn a top-tier contract.
Among the most high-profile demotions are Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, both previously in Category A, who have now been moved to Category B. Shan Masood has been pushed to Category D. At the same time, players like Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf, and Saim Ayub have received promotions into higher categories. The list also includes 12 new names, indicating a fresh start and a clear message from the board that performances matter more than seniority.
Some players reportedly expressed disappointment over the decision, with sources claiming that a few considered rejecting the contracts altogether. However, many — including Babar — have responded with professionalism. Videos of him returning to intense training sessions surfaced shortly after the announcement, hinting at a strong comeback mindset.
Public response has been mixed. While some fans appreciate the accountability move, others worry it might impact team unity and morale. Cricket analysts have noted that removing Category A creates ambiguity in leadership and value structure, especially with senior players now grouped alongside rising stars.
Still, the PCB seems committed to a merit-based system. This decision, effective from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, reflects the board’s increasing emphasis on discipline, consistency, and future planning. Whether this approach boosts performance or backfires remains to be seen — but the message is loud and clear.
Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Rizwan, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi
Abdullah Shafique, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Sahibzada Farhan, Sajid Khan, Saud Shakeel
Ahmed Daniyal, Hussain Talat, Khurram Shahzad, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Salman Mirza, Shan Masood, Sufyan Moqim
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