The Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) latest central contract announcement has sparked heated debate across the cricket fraternity and among fans. The biggest talking point is the demotion of star batter and former captain Babar Azam, who has been shifted to a lower category despite being Pakistan’s leading run-scorer in recent years.
A Shocking Call from the PCB
Babar, once the face of Pakistan cricket and a consistent performer across formats, has been placed below the top contract category—a move that has surprised many. For years, he has anchored Pakistan’s batting line-up, holding records in ODIs and T20Is, and enjoying the reputation of being among the finest batsmen in world cricket.
The PCB, however, justified the decision by stating that contracts were awarded on “performance, fitness, and future planning.” Insiders suggest that a shift in team management strategy and the board’s emphasis on grooming new leadership might have influenced this call.
Fans Cry Foul
The decision has not gone down well with cricket lovers across Pakistan. Social media was flooded with reactions, with hashtags like #JusticeForBabar and #NationalHero trending soon after the announcement.
Many fans expressed disbelief, calling the demotion a sign of disrespect to a player who has carried Pakistan cricket on his shoulders for nearly a decade. Some even compared it to “forgetting the contributions of legends too soon.”
One fan wrote: “Babar Azam has given everything for Pakistan cricket. Demoting him is an insult to our national hero.”
Former Players React
Several ex-cricketers also weighed in, hinting that the PCB should have handled the matter with more sensitivity. A few noted that Babar may not currently be captain, but his stature as a batter remains unmatched. Others questioned whether such decisions could hurt team morale and player confidence.
What Lies Ahead for Babar?
While the contract demotion is a setback, Babar Azam continues to be a vital figure in Pakistan’s cricketing plans. His consistency with the bat makes him irreplaceable, and many believe that his performances will once again force the board to rethink its approach.
For now, Babar has chosen silence over controversy, focusing on cricket rather than public statements. Yet, the ongoing uproar reflects how deeply the move has impacted both his supporters and the broader cricketing community.
The PCB’s decision to demote Babar Azam in the central contracts has created more questions than answers. Was it a forward-looking strategy, or an unfair snub to a modern-day great? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear—Babar continues to remain Pakistan’s cricketing icon, regardless of contract categories.
