New Delhi: The BCCI’s annual central contracts always spark interest, largely because they reveal how the board values its players’ contribution, consistency
and commitment over the previous season. With the current cycle awarded in April 2025, there is already plenty of chatter around the season. With the current cycle awarded in April 2025, there’s already plenty of chatter around the next list, especially with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma reportedly facing a potential downgrade.
The central contracts are built to reward players who shoulder responsibility across formats, particularly in Test cricket. The retainership is fixed for the year, independent of match fees and is meant to ensure stability for the top tier of Indian cricket but the grades aren’t permanent. They shift depending on form, fitness and participation which is why the discussion around Kohli and Virat has gained momentum.
Since these two icons have stepped away from Tests and T20Is, the selectors and BCCI officials are evaluating whether they still fit the A+ bracket which is strictly reserved for all-format mainstays. Shubman Gill, who is now leading India in Tests and ODIs, is widely expected to move up to that elite category.
How BCCI decides player grades
The contract system is divided into four slabs- A+, A, B and C. Each carries a fixed annual retainership with A+ being the highest. To reach or remain in the top tier, a player must contribute consistently across formats or be central to India’s Test plans. That’s why Test commitment has become such a crucial factor in these discussions.
Players’ performance over the previous year also plays a major role. A strong run can lead to a promotion, while a quiet season or injury layoffs can push a player down a grade. There’s also a basic match eligibility requirement, usually around three Tests or a set number of white-ball games, just to qualify for the lowest category.
Another key factor is the domestic cricket clause. Another key factor is the domestic cricket clause. The board has been strict about players participating in Ranji Trophy games when they are not on national duty. The recent cases like Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan have shown that ignoring this directive can lead to serious consequences including removal from the list altogether.
Why RoKo may face pay cut
Kohli and Rohit currently sit in the A+ bracket, but with both stepping away from Tests and T20Is, a drop to Grade A is looking increasingly likely. Despite retiring from T20Is, Ravindra Jadeja is expected to stay in A+ because he remains a key figure in India’s Test setup.
If the two senior batters are moved down, their retainership would fall from ₹7 crore to ₹5 crore for the next cycle, marking a straight ₹2 crore reduction not because of a dip in stature but due to the BCCI’s emphasis on all-format involvement.
For now, it’s just a looming possibility but the signs suggest a shift is coming as the board continues aligning contracts with format commitments and long-term planning.
