Despite being one of Pakistan’s top performers in the UAE this year, Babar Azam was shockingly excluded from the 17-member squad.
Babar has been moved from Category A to Category B, a big downgrade for a player of his stature.
With this demotion, Babar’s salary has been slashed by over ₹6 lakh in Indian Rupees (₹20 lakh in Pakistani Rupees) per month.
From being Pakistan’s premier batsman and former captain, his reduced ranking in the contract list reflects a loss of trust from PCB.
Such decisions can severely affect a player’s confidence, form, and long-term career stability.
PCB’s inconsistent policies and internal politics have often been criticized, and Babar’s exclusion highlights poor management and favoritism.
Cricket fans are furious, seeing this as an intentional move to sideline Babar Azam, which could damage not only his career but also Pakistan cricket’s reputation.