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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is preparing to take stringent measures against captain Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and other team members following their disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup 2024. Reports from PTI suggest that these top players may face salary reductions as part of the disciplinary actions.

Led by Babar Azam, the Pakistan National Cricket Team had a dismal campaign in the ongoing T20 World Cup. After their match against the United States of America was washed out due to rain, Pakistan’s hopes of advancing to the Super 8 stage were dashed as they failed to progress.

The team’s early exit from the tournament was primarily due to their poor performance. Pakistan started with a disappointing loss to the United States of America in their opening match of the T20 World Cup 2024. Subsequently, their defeat against India further jeopardized their chances of advancing.

Following Pakistan’s underwhelming display in the tournament, there have been recommendations from officials and former players urging PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to reassess the central contracts that were initially awarded during the tenure of his predecessor, Zaka Ashraf. Speaking to PTI, Naqvi elaborated on the need for these evaluations.

“There could be a reassessment of the central contracts and the players could find their salaries, and fees being cut if the Chairman decides to react strongly to the team’s recent woeful performances.”

Pakistan’s failure to advance past the group stage in the T20 World Cup 2024 marked their third such disappointment in nine editions. Recent ICC tournaments have been challenging for them, despite reaching the final of the 2022 T20 World Cup, they have not lifted a trophy since the 2017 Champions Trophy.

While no final decisions have been made, sources from within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have confirmed discussions about imposing strict measures. The Chairman has been involved in these deliberations, indicating a serious approach.

Before the start of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had promised a bonus of USD 100,000 if the Babar Azam-led team won the tournament. However, with their elimination from the competition, this expectation has been dashed, disappointing fans and supporters across Pakistan.

Pakistan, despite being eliminated from the T20 World Cup 2024, has one remaining fixture in the tournament. Led by Babar Azam, they will face Ireland in their last match, scheduled for Sunday, June 16th, in Florida.

The upcoming game against Ireland represents the Pakistan Cricket Team’s final chance to leave a mark in the tournament. Having last secured a victory against Canada, they aim to finish on a positive note. Beyond this match, the future direction of the team remains uncertain and will be closely watched.