Senior cricketers stunned as PCB omits category 'A' from central contracts

Senior cricketers were left stunned after finding that Category A was missing. Some players are even considering rejecting the contracts, although doing so will not be easy.

According to details, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the central contracts for national cricketers yesterday, but no one was placed in Category A. Sources revealed that senior players were not only shocked but also displeased, feeling disrespected. The players shared their frustration with each other in private discussions.

On Monday, an official from the International Cricket Department contacted the players to inform them of the decision, but selectors were notably absent. The announcement of the contracts came only through a press release, with no selector available to explain the decisions.

Sources further stated that some players are considering freeing themselves from the obligations of the contracts. While it is possible to represent the country without a central contract, refusing it could anger the board, making such a step difficult.

Reports also suggest that there were impressions that few players got contracts or promotions under the influence of Aaqib Javed and coach Mike Hesson. Questions have also been raised about the inclusion of “all-rounder” Faheem Ashraf, who, despite scoring 97 runs and taking 6 wickets in 9 T20I matches this year, found his name in the list.

However, PCB sources insist that no decision was made on the basis of favoritism. They emphasized that 100% merit was followed, and as players’ performances improve, their contract categories will also improve accordingly.