The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has recently updated its central contracts, and the changes have brought a big shock for fans. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan’s salaries have been cut after the board decided to demote both star players from Category A to Category B. This decision came after their recent dip in form and inconsistent performances for Pakistan across formats.
Earlier, both Babar and Rizwan were at the top level of contracts. Category A players used to earn PKR 4.5 million per month (around ₹13.9 lakh), with a large portion, about PKR 2.07 million, coming from Pakistan’s share of ICC revenue. However, after the demotion, they will now earn only PKR 3 million per month (about ₹9.2 lakh). Consequently, both players will face a sharp salary cut of nearly PKR 1.5 million every month.
In a surprising turn of events, the PCB has decided not to include any players in Category A for the 2025-26 season. Instead, they’ve opted to increase the overall contracts list from 27 players to 30. Moreover, the biggest names of Pakistan cricket, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, Fakhar Zaman, and Shadab Khan, are all placed in Category B.
By doing this, PCB has sent a clear message that no one is above accountability and performance standards. Therefore, the board wants players to earn their way back to the top category through consistent match-winning displays.
Interestingly, while the top players saw a salary cut, PCB increased salaries in the lower categories. For instance, players in Category C will now take home PKR 2.5 million each month, up from PKR 2 million. Meanwhile, those in Category D will see their earnings rise to PKR 1.5 million, compared to the previous PKR 1.2 million. In addition, the overall number of contracted players has also gone up, showing PCB’s intent to give more opportunities to young cricketers.
However, for stars like Babar and Rizwan, there has been no increase at all. Their pay structure remains fixed at PKR 3 million, which highlights PCB’s stricter stance on senior players. Adding to the worry, PCB is also considering removing the 3% ICC revenue share from player contracts. If this change is approved, then salaries will be reduced even further.
On the other hand, the board believes this step will help manage finances more effectively. For players like Babar and Rizwan, who are already dealing with a significant pay cut, this decision could result in an even larger hit to their earnings.
The board’s decision is not just about money. Instead, it is also about sending a strong signal to the team that performance and discipline will decide a player’s worth. PCB wants to rebuild Pakistan cricket with hunger and accountability. Therefore, even the biggest stars are not safe from penalties if they fail to deliver.
In the meantime, this change might just inspire Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to find their top form again. Both players remain crucial for Pakistan’s batting lineup, and their future performances will decide whether they can climb back to the highest-paying category.
In conclusion, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan’s salaries have taken a big hit after their demotion from Category A to Category B. Their monthly income has dropped from PKR 4.5 million to PKR 3 million. The possible removal of ICC revenue share could reduce it even more. Ultimately, the PCB has made it clear: only consistent performance will bring rewards, while poor form will come with heavy financial consequences.
