The PCB has officially released central contracts for the 2025-26 cricket season, introducing a surprising change. For the first time in years, no player has been placed in Category A. This decision highlights the board’s emphasis on performance and consistency over seniority or reputation.
The new contracts will be in effect from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. A total of 30 national players have been awarded contracts. These players are divided into Category B, Category C, and Category D, with 10 players in each group.
In Category B, the PCB has placed top players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, who were previously in Category A. Other players in this group include Shaheen Afridi, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, and Abrar Ahmed.
Category C features a mix of experienced names and rising talent. This includes Abdullah Shafique, Naseem Shah, Saud Shakeel, Faheem Ashraf, Sajid Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Haris, Sohaibzada Farhan, Hassan Nawaz, and Noman Ali.
Category D includes Shan Masood, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Abbas Afridi, Khushdil Shah, Ahmed Daniyal, Salman Mirza, Khurram Shahzad, and Sufyan Muqim.
The PCB has confirmed that the selection was made purely on individual performances and consistency shown by the players over time. Officials stated that the absence of Category A players is intended to send a strong message — players must continuously perform to earn top-tier status.
This move reflects the PCB’s focus on maintaining meritocracy within the national cricket structure. It also signals a new direction aimed at encouraging young talent and raising competition among players.
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