Islamabad, August 18 — Several senior members of the Pakistan cricket team were reportedly left “shocked and disrespected” after the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) recent decision to demote key players in its updated list of central contracts, according to media reports.

Former captain Babar Azam and current ODI skipper Mohammad Rizwan were among those shifted to Category B, a move that sources claim has created unrest within the dressing room. Some players allegedly considered rejecting the contracts altogether in protest before being persuaded to remain committed.

According to insiders, the abrupt downgrading came in the aftermath of Pakistan’s Asia Cup 2025 squad announcement, where both players faced selection controversies. The development has sparked debate in cricketing circles, with critics suggesting the decision could affect team morale ahead of crucial international fixtures.

While the PCB has maintained that the changes were made based on performance metrics and future planning, close associates of the affected players said the manner of communication was “disrespectful.” Reports further indicate that discussions took place among senior cricketers about whether to voice their dissent formally, though no official statement has been released by the players themselves.

The PCB is yet to comment publicly on claims of dissatisfaction. Analysts warn that internal rifts, if left unresolved, may impact Pakistan’s preparations for the upcoming ICC tournaments.