Mumbai:The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the annual central contracts for Team India, effective from October 1, marking a significant shift in the Indian cricket hierarchy. The latest contract cycle reflects the board’s focus on current performance, leadership responsibilities, and future planning.
Young batting star Shubman Gill has been placed in Grade A, underlining his growing importance in Indian cricket. Gill’s elevation comes after consistent performances across formats and his emergence as a key leader in the national setup. His inclusion in the top contract grade signals the BCCI’s confidence in him as a long-term pillar of Team India.
For this cycle, the BCCI has streamlined the contract system, doing away with the earlier A+ category. Players have now been classified into Grade A, Grade B, and Grade C, based on international appearances, workload, and overall impact.
Along with Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja feature in Grade A, forming an elite group entrusted with major responsibilities across formats. This category represents the highest level of annual retainership offered by the board.
Several senior cricketers, including Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, have been placed in Grade B, reflecting changes in their playing schedules and selective availability rather than a comment on their legacy or contribution to Indian cricket.
The updated contract list highlights BCCI’s intent to reward current form, fitness, and leadership while gradually transitioning toward a new core group. With Shubman Gill’s rise to Grade A, the board has sent a clear message about the future direction of Team India.
The contracts will remain valid until September 30 of the following year, after which the list will be reviewed again based on performances and team requirements.
