BCCI News: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is planning a major revamp of its central contracts system, a move that could come as a massive shock to Indian cricket icons Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. As per emerging developments, the elite A+ contract category is likely to be removed entirely, marking a significant shift in how the Indian board rewards its players.
If implemented, this decision will end the highest-paying tier in Indian cricket contracts and could result in a substantial pay cut for some of the biggest names in the game.
What Is the A+ Category and Why It Matters
The A+ category was introduced to reward players who consistently represented India across all three formats Tests, ODIs, and T20 Internationals. This elite bracket carried the highest annual retainer, placing players in a league of their own in terms of remuneration and status.
Over the last few seasons, only a select few including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah featured in this premium grade.
However, with the changing dynamics of international cricket and increasing format specialization, the relevance of the A+ category has come under serious review.
Why BCCI Is Considering Removing A+ Contracts
According to sources close to the selection committee, the BCCI wants to align player payments with current workload and format participation, rather than reputation or past achievements.
Key reasons behind the proposed overhaul include:
- Several senior players now play only one format
- The need to reward all-format availability and workload
- A push towards performance-based and future-focused contracts
- Streamlining the overall contract structure
The Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel has reportedly suggested doing away with the A+ tier altogether and reverting to a three-grade system: A, B, and C.
Big Impact on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli
The biggest talking point of this overhaul is its potential impact on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, two of India’s most celebrated cricketers.
Both players have stepped away from certain formats in recent times and are currently active primarily in ODIs. Under the new proposed framework:
- Rohit Sharma could be moved from A+ to Grade B
- Virat Kohli is also expected to fall under Grade B
Such a downgrade would mean a significant reduction in their annual retainers, possibly cutting their earnings by several crores annually.
While their stature and legacy remain unquestioned, the new policy appears to prioritize current contribution over past glory.
Who Benefits From the New Structure
While senior stars may feel the pinch, the revised system is expected to benefit players who are actively representing India across formats.
Cricketers like Jasprit Bumrah, who continue to play multiple formats, are likely to remain among the top earners even without the A+ label.
Young leaders such as Shubman Gill are also expected to gain from the restructuring, with strong indications that the BCCI wants to back the next generation with better financial recognition and leadership roles.
Is the Decision Final
As of now, the proposal has not been officially approved. The final decision rests with the BCCI Apex Council, which will evaluate:
- Whether A+ should be scrapped completely
- Revised salary slabs for A, B, and C categories
- Final player placements for the upcoming season
The revamped contracts are expected to come into effect from the 2025–26 central contract cycle, once formal approval is granted.
A Turning Point in Indian Cricket Contracts
If implemented, this move will mark one of the most significant policy changes in BCCI’s contract history. It reflects a clear message from the board that current performance, availability, and workload matter more than legacy alone.
While fans remain divided over whether legends should face pay cuts, one thing is clear: Indian cricket is entering a new era of accountability and performance-driven rewards.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this bold proposal becomes official or remains a plan on paper.
