Pakistan’s star cricketers Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have been demoted in the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) central contract list, weeks after both players were left out of the Asia Cup 2025 squad. The decision comes amid a reshuffle by the board as it reviews performances and long-term plans.

According to reports, Babar and Rizwan, previously placed in the top contract category, have now been shifted to lower tiers. The move has surprised many, given their consistent roles in Pakistan’s batting lineup in recent years. PCB sources indicated that the changes were made to set “new benchmarks” for performance and fitness, stressing that central contracts would now be more closely tied to form and availability.

The development follows criticism of Pakistan’s selection for the Asia Cup, where both players were dropped despite being among the team’s senior-most members. Analysts suggest the demotion reflects both a transitional phase in team management and a signal to younger players that reputations alone will not secure places.

Neither Babar nor Rizwan has publicly reacted to the decision so far. The PCB, meanwhile, has reiterated its stance on restructuring domestic and international commitments to prepare for upcoming tours and the 2025 Champions Trophy.

The move has sparked debate within cricketing circles in Pakistan, with some backing the PCB’s tough call while others question sidelining two of the country’s biggest names ahead of a crucial year.