BCCI’s central contract list announced, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli demoted
**BCCI Announces Renewed Central Contracts for Indian Cricket Players**
After much anticipation and speculation, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled the updated list of centrally contracted players for the upcoming season. The new contracts have brought about significant changes, including the removal of the A+ grade payment system.
**Changes in Central Contracts**
One of the most talked-about changes in the central contracts is the shift of two Indian cricket legends, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, to Grade B. This move means that both players will now receive a lower salary compared to their previous contracts. The Grade A category, which includes the highest-paid players, consists of only three cricketers: Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravindra Jadeja.
**Notable Exclusions**
Some notable exclusions from the central contracts include Sarfaraz Khan and Mohammed Shami. These players, who have been key contributors to the Indian team in the past, did not make the cut this time around. The central contracts cover a total of 30 cricketers, with various players placed in Grades B and C based on their performance and contribution to the team.
**Women’s Central Contracts**
The central contracts also extend to the women’s national cricket team, with players like Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Deepti Sharma making it to Grade A. The women’s team has a total of 21 players under central contracts, with a distribution of 4 players each in Grades A and B.
**Full List of Central Contracts**
The BCCI has announced the Annual Player Contracts for both the Senior Men and Senior Women teams for the 2025-26 season. The list includes players like Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, Hardik Pandya, Rishabh Pant, and more in Grade B for the men’s team. For the women’s team, players like Radha Yadav, Uma Chetri, and Harleen Deol have been listed in Grade C.
**In Conclusion**
The new central contracts have brought about significant changes in the payment system for Indian cricketers. The exclusion of some prominent players and the repositioning of others in different grades reflect the BCCI’s focus on rewarding performance and contribution to the team. As the new season approaches, fans will be eager to see how these changes impact the performance of the Indian cricket team on the field.
Evolution of Central Contracts in Indian Cricket
Central contracts in Indian cricket have evolved over the years, reflecting the changing dynamics of the sport. The shift from the A+ grade payment system to a more streamlined approach demonstrates the BCCI’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding players based on their current form and contribution to the team.
Impact on Player Motivation and Performance
The changes in central contracts can have a significant impact on player motivation and performance. Players who have been repositioned in lower grades may feel the need to prove themselves and strive for excellence to climb back up the ranks. On the other hand, newcomers or players who have been promoted to higher grades may feel a renewed sense of responsibility to maintain their performance levels.
Role of Predictive Analytics in Contract Decisions
With the advancement of technology and data analytics in sports, predictive analytics plays a crucial role in determining central contracts. By analyzing player statistics, performance trends, and other key metrics, the BCCI can make informed decisions about which players deserve a spot in each grade. This data-driven approach adds a layer of objectivity to the contract selection process.
Performance-Based Incentives and Long-Term Contracts
Performance-based incentives within central contracts can serve as a motivating factor for players to consistently deliver top-notch performances. Additionally, offering long-term contracts to players who have shown exceptional talent and dedication can provide them with stability and security, allowing them to focus on honing their skills without the fear of contract uncertainties.
Equality and Inclusivity in Central Contracts
While the focus is often on the top-tier players in central contracts, it is essential to ensure that there is equality and inclusivity across all grades. Recognizing and rewarding players at every level of the team, regardless of their seniority or experience, fosters a sense of belonging and encourages healthy competition within the squad.
Future Prospects for Indian Cricket
As the Indian cricket team gears up for the upcoming season, the renewed central contracts set the stage for a competitive and performance-driven environment. With a mix of experienced veterans and emerging talent in the squad, fans can expect an exciting season ahead, where players will aim to prove their worth and make a lasting impact on the field.
Overall, the announcement of the renewed central contracts by the BCCI marks a significant moment in the world of Indian cricket, signaling a shift towards a more merit-based and performance-driven system that aims to elevate the standard of the sport in the country.


