PCB announces new central contract for Pakistan cricketers with big relief for Babar Azam and trouble for Shaheen Afridi

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has brought relief to former captain Babar Azam by retaining him in the top-tier 'A' category of central contracts for the 2024-25 international season.

Pakistan Team's new central contract list released

This decision comes after a review of the contracts, which were initially announced before the 2023 ODI World Cup. Pakistan's disappointing performance in the tournament, where they failed to qualify for the semifinals, prompted the board to reassess the player contracts. Despite this setback, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have been retained in the highest category, demonstrating their continued importance to the national team. The new contracts will be effective from July 1, 2024, and will cover a period of 12 months.

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Shaheen Afridi demoted, Babar Azam retained in A cetegory

Babar Azam's recent form has been a cause for concern, leading to his exclusion from the Pakistan squad for the final two Tests against England. Despite this dip in performance, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has shown faith in him by retaining him in the top 'A' category of central contracts.

In contrast, the pacers Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah have experienced a demotion in their contract categories. Shaheen, who was previously in the 'A' category alongside Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, has been downgraded to the 'B' category. Naseem Shah, who was in the 'B' category, has been further demoted to the 'C' category. This decision reflects their inconsistent performances and the need to improve their form.

On a positive note, Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood has been rewarded for his consistent performances with a promotion to the 'B' category contract.

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PCB has introduced a new batch of talented cricketers to its central contract system. Five players - Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Muhammad Irfan Khan, and Usman Khan - have been awarded their first central contracts. These emerging talents have been placed in the lowest 'D' category as the board recognizes their potential and aims to nurture their skills. In addition to the new entrants, experienced spinners Noman Ali and Sajid Khan have been rewarded for their significant contributions to Pakistan's recent Test series victory over England. Both players have been upgraded to the 'C' category of central contracts, reflecting their growing importance to the national team.

Here's how Pakistan Team's new central contract looks like: