Mohammad rizwan, a mainstay of Pakistani cricket is now facing trouble he feels sighted by a renewed contract offer from the PCB following his demotion from category A, as stated by teammates Rumman Raees. This situation reveals deeper problem within Pakistani cricket governments, igniting debate amount supporters commentators, plus ex- player.

Mohammad Rizwan is considered one of Pakistan's most consistent players, and has been a key play across all formats in recent years. He is a crowd favourite for sheer perseverance, selfcontrol and gritty fighting spirit especially after his T20 World Cup 2021 fight and series thereafter. Rizwan consistency receives accolades because he’s a cool head who collaborates well with others –a
quality whether he’s working or playing. So his ouster from the top category of the central contract has come as a surprise to many in cricket circles, one of them being the fans themselves. 

The PCB's new contract system sees Rizwan in a lower pay grade with changes meaning other players whose performances could hardly be considered to have been more consistent are on higher contracts. The 32-year-old keeper was disappointed by this verdict which he thought, as the board's appraisal process was one-sided and unfair. They insidiously regarded the relegation as
humiliating as Rizwan believes he has always given his all for the country and worked hard. He has, therefore, opted not to put pen to paper in a rare public protest at the PCB's administrative decrees.

This news has spread like a wildfire among the cricket community in Pakistan. How PCB has dealt with it so far is a letdown for several former cricketers, including ex-captains and commentators. Most believe that Rizwan’s demotion is as a result of internal politics and favouritism, which has been the bane of Pakistan cricket for many years, not his ability to play. The critics argue that PCB fails to appreciate and reward dedication and consistency, rather choosing players on their fancy or one/two matches' results.

The word is there’s a lot of tension in the dressing room. Other leading players too share the same opinion as Rizwan but they prefer to not voice it in public because of fear of criticism or disciplinary action. At a time when there were big tournaments and tours ahead, such infighting can harm team spirit. Fragmented dressing room A continued Pakistan cricket problem which invariably rubs off the team’s performance on field is divided dressing room and those groups relationship with a coach.

There has also been a social media explosion of reactions. Use of trending hashtags such as #JusticeForRizwan and #StandWithRizwan faorum fans from the globe have voiced their support for Rizwan. The PCB's decision making has faced a backlash on social media from many users, who have criticized what they see as "absence of transparency and professionalism." Others have said Rizwan’s skills are also precious, not least his virtues as a reliable middle-order batsman and wicketkeeper, while abuse could deter future players who appreciate honesty and hard work.

The PCB has also not announced any valid reasons for which Rizwan has been relegated. Insiders say the board may seek to strike a compromise with him in an effort to avoid making things messier. Though it would be very hard to resolve the matter amicably as Rizawan is too adamant and due to more attention from public. 

The inherent lack of any semblance of stability in Pakistan cricket's administrative system is once again hinted at on account of this stalemate. Senior pros such as Younis Khan, Misbah-ul Haq and Shoaib Malik have been at loggerheads with the board on grounds of contracts and selection policies in the past. The fact that these problems keep recurring suggests that we’re in dire need of fundamental change. 

Mishandling the Rizwan episode might have a long-term fallout. It could be to the detriment of Pakistan’s reputation overseas — and demoralising for a team that is doing enough with their fluctuating displays as it is. Cricketing greats have warned that the PCB should focus on building trust, and also eliminate the prevailing closed environment for better promotion of talented players instead of punishing committed players.

Finally Mohammad Rizwan’s refusal to sign the white-ball central contract is not a money or hierarchy issue but one of respect, justice and dignity. His uprising has also forced the Pakistan Cricket Board to at least have a long overdue integrity chat. Now the PCB have a litmus test before them with his backers and former cricketing greats rallying behind him: either rebuild trust by
tackling the problem head-on or run the risk of widening the rifts within one of the most fervent cricketing nations in the world.