Pakistan Men’s Central Contracts 2025-26 announced

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the Men’s Central Contracts for the 2025-26 season just hours ago, introducing major changes in the structure. For the first time in multiple years, no player has been placed in Category A.

There are 30 cricketers distributed equally across categories B, C and D. Compared to 27 players in the earlier cycle, 30 are chosen this time. Each category features 10 cricketers, reflecting the Board’s aim to create a more balanced and performance-based system.

Star players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizan – holders of the top Category A earlier – are demoted to Category B. You can also find a number of youngsters and consistent performers in this group. The list includes 12 fresh names.

Image courtesy: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)

Equal accountability for both senior players and fresh ones

It appears that the Central Contracts are closely connected to recent performances and fitness standards. The decision to exclude the top category is seen as a measure to ensure equal accountability for both senior players and the fresh ones.

The Men’s National Selection Committee also recently announced Pakistan squads for the upcoming T20I tri-series and the eight-team ACC Asia Cup – both to be hosted by the UAE from later this month until September 28.

Sharjah Cricket Stadium is going to host the tri-series, featuring Pakistan, Afghanistan and the UAE. The Asia Cup, on the other hand, is going to be hosted by Abu Dhabi and Dubai from September 9 to 28.