PCB Drops Category A as Central Contracts Unveiled

In a bold strategic move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has done away with Category A entirely in its 2025–26 central contracts. This year, no player holds the top-tier designation, a departure from tradition.

Star Players Demoted

Former captain Babar Azam and current ODI skipper Mohammad Rizwan, both previously in Category A, have been relegated to Category B. The decision comes alongside their recent omission from Pakistan’s Asia Cup squad, further signaling a shift in focus toward fresh talent. 

Prominent Promotions and New Faces

The PCB has rewarded standout performers with demotions and promotions across categories:

• Promoted to Category B: Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan (alongside Babar, Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi).
• Category C: Abdullah Shafique, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Sahibzada Farhan, Sajid Khan, Saud Shakeel.
• Category D: Ahmed Daniyal, Hussain Talat, Khurram Shahzad, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Salman Mirza, Shan Masood, Sufyan Moqim.

What This Implies for Pakistan Cricket

• End of Category A: The absence of a top-tier bracket suggests a more performance-oriented and egalitarian contract structure.
• Focus on Emerging Talent: PCB’s elevation of newer performers underscores commitment to cultivating squad depth.
• Clear Signal to Established Stars: Demotion of icons like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan sends a message that past success is no guarantee—continuity now hinges on form and performance.

Quick Snapshot: 2025–26 Central Contracts