PCB to Drop Faheem Ashraf Over India Controversy & Performance

Awaiting Major Overhaul: PCB Set to Announce New Central Contracts

The cricketing world often buzzes with anticipation surrounding national team selections and, perhaps even more critically, the announcement of central contracts. For Pakistan cricket, this period is especially charged. Under the stewardship of Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly poised to unveil its central contract list for the forthcoming season, a move that is expected to usher in a significant overhaul. This impending announcement comes at a crucial juncture, with the Pakistani team, currently led by Shan Masood, navigating a challenging two-match Test series against Bangladesh. Reports suggest a comprehensive reshuffle is on the cards, indicating the PCB’s determination to address performance inconsistencies and uphold disciplinary standards. The previous central contract cycle, which commenced on August 19 last year for the 2025-26 season, is set to conclude on June 30. As this deadline approaches, speculation is rife about which players will retain their coveted places and which new faces will emerge.

Faheem Ashraf Faces the Axe Amidst Controversy and Performance Woes

At the forefront of these anticipated changes is veteran all-rounder Faheem Ashraf. His name has been linked not only with a dip in on-field performance but also with a considerable off-field controversy that has reportedly drawn the ire of the PCB hierarchy. Faheem Ashraf received widespread backlash, particularly from the Indian cricket fraternity, for a derogatory social media post targeting India’s ‘Operation Sindoor’.

The ‘Operation Sindoor’ Controversy

The post reportedly mocked the military strike, which the Indian Army launched in response to intelligence reports confirming Pakistan’s alleged involvement in the heinous Pahalgam terror attack. Faheem Ashraf’s social media activity did not stop there; he also allegedly glorified Pakistan’s Army chief, Asim Munir, in a subsequent post. Adding to the controversy, he later shared artwork depicting his country’s retaliatory military operation, an operation that was notably neutralised by India’s advanced air defence systems.

Performance Under Scrutiny

Such politically charged comments have undoubtedly cast a shadow over his standing. Coupled with this controversy are Faheem’s recent performances on the field, which, according to various reports, have fallen significantly short of the standards expected from an internationally capped all-rounder. His current form, unfortunately, does not present a compelling case for his continued inclusion in the national squad, let alone a central contract. Pakistan’s renowned media agency Geo Super has explicitly reported that the Mohsin Naqvi-led PCB is poised to remove Faheem Ashraf from the central contract list, signaling a firm stance against both underperformance and controversial conduct.

Other Prominent Names on the Chopping Block

Faheem Ashraf is not the only player facing potential exclusion from the PCB’s central contract list. Several other senior cricketers, whose recent performances have not met expectations, are also reportedly on the chopping block as the PCB looks to infuse fresh talent and reinvigorate the team.

Mohammad Nawaz’s Struggles

Among them is left-arm spinner and all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz. His campaign in the recent T20 World Cup, held in Sri Lanka, was particularly underwhelming. Across six matches, Nawaz managed a paltry 15 runs with the bat and could only secure seven wickets, a return far below what is expected from a player of his experience and role in the side.

Abdullah Shafique’s Dip in Form

Top-order batter Abdullah Shafique is another prominent name who has been grappling with a persistent struggle for form. Once considered a promising prospect, Shafique’s inability to convert his talent into consistent performances has raised concerns, making his position in the central contract list precarious.

Unfulfilled Potential: Hussain Talat and Khushdil Shah

Similarly, Hussain Talat and Khushdil Shah, despite being afforded numerous opportunities at the highest level by the Mohsin Naqvi-led PCB, have consistently failed to deliver performances that justify a sustained place in the national setup or a central contract. Their exclusion would highlight the PCB’s commitment to only rewarding players who consistently perform and contribute meaningfully to the team’s success.

New Blood on the Horizon: Youngsters Set for Reward

While several established names face the prospect of being dropped, the upcoming central contract list is also expected to feature a refreshing influx of young talent. This move underscores the PCB’s strategy to nurture future stars and build a resilient team for the long term.

Azan Awais: A Centurion on Debut

According to Geo Super, opening batter Azan Awais is a prime candidate for inclusion. Awais emerged as a significant positive for Pakistan during the first Test against Bangladesh, where he showcased exceptional composure and skill. His remarkable debut century not only propelled him into an elite group of batters who have achieved this feat but also firmly placed him on the PCB’s radar as a future cornerstone of Pakistan cricket.

Abdullah Fazal’s Consistent Form

Joining Awais in the potential list of new entrants is Abdullah Fazal, another promising talent. Fazal has recently impressed with successive fifty-plus scores, demonstrating his ability to handle pressure and thrive at the highest level of domestic and early international exposure. The PCB reportedly views both Awais and Fazal as valuable assets, whose consistent performances warrant their inclusion in the central contract list, signaling a clear shift towards recognizing and rewarding emerging talent.

The Implications for Pakistan Cricket

The impending announcement of the central contract list by the Mohsin Naqvi-led PCB is more than just a routine administrative update; it represents a critical juncture for Pakistan cricket. It is a clear statement of intent from the board to enforce discipline, demand consistent performance, and invest in the future. The decision to potentially exclude established players due to a combination of controversial conduct and poor form, while simultaneously elevating promising youngsters, reflects a strategic vision aimed at revitalizing the national team and fostering a culture of accountability and excellence. Fans and pundits alike will be keenly watching to see how these significant changes shape the trajectory of Pakistan cricket in the seasons to come.