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21.03.2025
PCB Urged to Revoke Central Contracts of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan Due to Club Cricket Engagements
In a recent turn of events, former Pakistan fast bowler Sikandar Bakht has criticized Mohammad Rizwan and prominent figures like Babar Azam for opting out of PCB’s domestic T20 competition, instead choosing to participate in club-level cricket. This decision by Rizwan has sparked a response from Bakht, emphasizing that as employees of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), it is their duty to partake in all tournaments orchestrated by the board. Bakht has pointed out that players receive a remuneration of Rs 60 lakh per month, which is intended to ensure their availability for PCB-sanctioned events, rather than club cricket activities.
During an appearance on Geo News, Bakht urged PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to consider revoking their central contracts, arguing for a stricter approach to enforce compliance. “There needs to be accountability. We cannot have players prioritizing club games over national duties. Mohsin Naqvi, though a seemingly gentle leader, must enforce discipline and demand clarity on this matter,” Bakht stated.
The controversy unfolded as Rizwan was seen participating in a club cricket match in Peshawar, evident from circulating images of him executing no-look shots on social media. Rizwan, who typically takes part in domestic competitions when not on international duty, has reportedly chosen to engage in club cricket to unwind after performing Umrah and ahead of the upcoming three-match ODI series in New Zealand.
Notably, Babar Azam and Naseem Shah, who initially skipped the National T20 Championship, were eventually seen playing for Lahore Blues against Karachi Whites. Their performances, however, were less than inspiring, with Babar managing only 22 runs from 17 balls and Naseem having a challenging spell, conceding 41 runs in four overs without taking a wicket.
The omission of Rizwan, Babar, and Naseem from Pakistan’s squad for the current five-match T20 series in New Zealand has also been a topic of discussion, with the restructured team suffering a significant nine-wicket defeat in the opening game. These cricketers are set to make their return in the upcoming ODI matches against New Zealand.
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