Mohsin Naqvi and PCB Set to Revamp Central Contracts: Faheem Ashraf Faces Axing

A New Chapter for Pakistan Cricket

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), under the leadership of Mohsin Naqvi, is currently in the process of finalizing its central contract list for the upcoming cricketing season. This period of transition comes at a challenging time, as the national team, currently led by Shan Masood, is locked in a competitive two-match Test series against Bangladesh. As the board looks to the future, significant changes are expected in the hierarchy of players who receive financial backing and national recognition.

The Controversy Surrounding Faheem Ashraf

At the center of recent discussions is veteran all-rounder Faheem Ashraf. Reports indicate that Ashraf is likely to be excluded from the new central contract list. This potential decision follows a period of intense scrutiny, during which Ashraf faced substantial backlash from the international cricket community, particularly in India. The criticism stems from his social media activities involving comments regarding India’s military operations, specifically referencing ‘Operation Sindoor.’ These public statements, which appeared to mock the Indian Army and glorify regional military figures, have created a negative atmosphere that the PCB seems keen to distance itself from.

Furthermore, these political posturings occurred alongside a decline in Ashraf’s on-field performance. When a player’s contributions on the pitch no longer justify their place in the team, and they are simultaneously embroiled in public controversy, it becomes increasingly difficult for a governing body to justify maintaining their central contract.

Cleaning House: Other Likely Exclusions

Faheem Ashraf is reportedly not the only high-profile name set to be removed from the contract list. The board is looking to make a clean break, with several other senior players facing an uncertain future. Mohammad Nawaz, who struggled significantly during the recent T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, is among those on the chopping block. Despite participating in six matches, his output of only 15 runs and seven wickets fell well below the expectations required at the international level.

Similarly, the PCB is evaluating the status of Abdullah Shafique, whose prolonged struggles with form have raised concerns within the selection committee. Furthermore, players like Hussain Talat and Khushdil Shah, who have been afforded multiple opportunities to establish themselves at the highest level without finding consistency, are also likely to be excluded from the upcoming list. The move signals a broader shift in strategy under Mohsin Naqvi, prioritizing merit and discipline over established seniority.

Investing in the Next Generation

While the potential departure of several established stars may come as a surprise to some, the PCB’s vision for the future appears to be centered on youth development. The board is expected to reward emerging talents who have demonstrated their capacity to excel under pressure. Among the most notable candidates for promotion to the central contract list are Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal.

Azan Awais has quickly become a standout prospect, etching his name into the history books by scoring a century on his Test debut during the current series against Bangladesh. His composure and technical ability have been widely lauded, marking him as a cornerstone for Pakistan’s batting lineup in the years to come. Simultaneously, Abdullah Fazal has caught the attention of selectors by consistently delivering fifty-plus scores, proving that he possesses the temperament required for international cricket.

Moving Forward

As the PCB navigates these complex decisions, the objective remains clear: to build a squad that is not only talented but also represents the values and professional standards expected of an international side. By moving away from players who have become distractions and instead investing in young, hungry athletes, Mohsin Naqvi’s board is attempting to usher in a more productive era for Pakistan cricket. The final list, which is expected to be announced shortly, will likely set the tone for the team’s direction through the remainder of the 2025-26 cycle. Whether these changes will translate into improved results on the field remains to be seen, but the intent to change the status quo is firmly in place.