The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the annual central contracts for the 2025-26 season, introducing a major restructuring that sees the scrapping of the A+ category. With the revision, Grade A now becomes the highest tier, and only three players—Jasprit Bumrah, Shubman Gill, and Ravindra Jadeja—have been placed in the top bracket.
Fast bowler Bumrah continues to be a key figure across formats, while Gill, who currently leads India in Tests and ODIs, has been promoted from Grade B to the top tier following consistent performances and growing leadership responsibilities. Veteran all-rounder Jadeja also retains his place in the highest category, reflecting his continued importance to the national side.
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In one of the most notable changes, former captains Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been moved to the Grade B category. Both players were earlier part of the elite A+ bracket but now feature primarily in the ODI format after stepping away from other formats, which influenced the downgrade under the new structure.
The revised list also includes several promotions and returns. Washington Sundar has been elevated from Grade C to Grade B, recognising his increased role across formats, while Shreyas Iyer has returned to the Grade B contracts after being outside the central list earlier.
The overhaul signals the BCCI’s attempt to align contract categories with players’ current roles, format participation, and long-term team planning, while rewarding performers who continue to contribute consistently at the international level.
