Babar Azam Faces Contract Uncertainty

Babar Azam's contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board is under scrutiny as the board announces a new central contracts structure.

What is the new central contracts structure?

The traditional categories of A, B, C, and D will be replaced by a format-specific system comprising five distinct player tracks. The new structure will have Track A for Test cricket specialists, Tracks B and C for ODI and T20 cricketers, and Track D for T20 specialists and franchise league players.

How will it affect Babar Azam?

Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi could be affected due to their non-participation in certain formats, with their contracts potentially being put on hold. As of June 21, the PCB has announced that the new structure will be implemented for the 2026 contract cycle.

What are the implications for Pakistan stars?

The new structure may lead to uncertainty for star cricketers like Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi, who may need to adapt to the new format-specific system. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has decided to trigger major changes in a bid to improve performances across formats. The Pakistan Cricket Board's decision to revamp the central contracts structure has sparked fresh concern for Babar Azam and other Pakistan stars. Babar Azam's performance in recent matches has been impressive, with a century in the last Test match against England on May 10. The new structure will be implemented for the 2026 contract cycle, which may affect Babar Azam's contract negotiations.