The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is preparing for one of the biggest changes in its annual central contract system in recent years. The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee has proposed a complete restructuring of the contract hierarchy, a move that could reshape how Indian cricketers are rewarded going forward.
At the heart of the proposal is the removal of the prestigious Grade A+ category, a bracket that has traditionally been reserved for senior, all-format players. If approved, the new system will feature only three grades — A, B, and C, with player placement linked closely to current workload and formats played rather than reputation or past legacy.
Why BCCI Is Considering This Change
The central contracts are reviewed every year to reflect a player’s role, availability, and contribution across formats. Over the past year, the structure has faced challenges due to:
- Several senior players stepping away from Test and T20I cricket
- A shrinking pool of true all-format players
- Increased focus on workload management and format specialization
With international cricket becoming more demanding, the BCCI wants a system that aligns pay structure with actual on-field involvement.
What Happens If the A+ Category Is Removed?
Under the current system, the A+ category carries the highest annual retainer. However, the proposed model removes this top tier entirely. If implemented:
- Players will be distributed only across Grade A, Grade B, and Grade C
- Retainers may be recalibrated to suit the new structure
- Format participation will become the primary factor in grading decisions
Senior players who now feature in only one format are expected to be placed in Grade B, marking a major shift from previous years.
Impact on Senior Indian Players
Some of India’s most experienced cricketers, who were previously automatic picks for the top contract bracket, could see a downgrade. This is not a reflection of performance decline, but rather a result of reduced format participation.
The move signals a clear message from the BCCI:
Central contracts are about current contribution, not past achievements.
Current Central Contract Structure (Before Proposed Changes)
| Grade | Annual Retainer |
|---|---|
| A+ | ₹7 crore |
| A | ₹5 crore |
| B | ₹3 crore |
| C | ₹1 crore |
If the proposal is approved, the A+ row will be removed, and players will be redistributed across the remaining three categories.
Read more: Top 5 Richest Cricket Boards in the World
What About Other Players?
- Players active in multiple formats are likely to benefit and could move up
- Emerging players with consistent appearances may gain stability in Grade B or C
- Leadership roles and workload balance will also influence final decisions
The proposal also opens the door for future financial revision, with the possibility of higher retainers even with fewer categories.
Decision Still Pending
It is important to note that these changes are not final yet. The proposal will be discussed at the next BCCI Apex Council meeting, where:
- Final approval will be considered
- Any changes to retainer amounts will be decided
- The official 2025–26 central contracts list will be finalized
Until then, the current contract structure remains in place.
This proposed overhaul reflects a broader shift in Indian cricket’s planning:
Read more: BCCI Central Contract 2026 List
The BCCI appears focused on building a future-ready framework, even if it means making tough decisions involving its biggest names.
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