BCCI Central Contracts Overhaul: Is the A+ Category Doomed for Kohli and Rohit?

No more A+ category? BCCI plans contract overhaul; Kohli, Rohit likely to drop

The landscape of Indian cricket is on the verge of a dramatic shift. In a move that has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly planning a sweeping overhaul of its BCCI central contracts system. At the heart of this potential revolution? The possible elimination of the prestigious A+ category—a tier that has long been the exclusive domain of the game’s biggest superstars.

This isn’t just bureaucratic tinkering; it’s a fundamental re-evaluation of how India’s top players are valued and compensated. And the most immediate and high-profile casualties of this proposed change could be none other than Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, two of the sport’s most iconic figures .

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The End of an Era: Bidding Farewell to the A+ Category?

Introduced back in 2017, the A+ category was a masterstroke by the BCCI. It created a clear financial and symbolic gulf between the all-format stalwarts and the rest of the pack, offering a hefty annual retainer of ₹7 crore . This elite club was reserved for players who were not just exceptional but were also the backbone of the team across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.

However, the game has evolved at a breakneck pace. With the rise of the IPL and a packed international calendar, player workloads have become a critical concern. The rigid four-tier system (A+, A, B, C) may no longer reflect the dynamic reality of modern cricket, where specialization is becoming more common . The selection committee has reportedly recommended scrapping the A+ grade to create a leaner, more flexible contract structure that better aligns with actual player involvement .

Why Kohli and Rohit Are in the Crosshairs

The primary reason Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are likely to be affected is their strategic shift in focus. Both legends have stepped away from Test cricket, choosing to concentrate their efforts on the ODI format leading up to major tournaments . While they remain invaluable assets in the 50-over game, their absence from the longest format directly impacts their eligibility under a system that heavily weighs multi-format participation.

Under the current, and likely future, criteria, a player must appear in a minimum number of matches across formats—typically 3 Tests, 8 ODIs, or 10 T20Is in a year—to qualify for a central contract . By opting out of the Test arena, Kohli and Rohit’s overall match count in the qualifying window diminishes, making a downgrade to Grade B a logical, if controversial, administrative decision . This doesn’t reflect a decline in their skill or marketability, but rather a recalibration based on their chosen workload.

Who Might Benefit from the New System?

While the spotlight is on the potential demotion of two legends, the new structure could be a boon for the next generation of all-format stars. Players like Jasprit Bumrah, who is expected to remain in the top bracket due to his consistent presence across all three formats, stand to gain . Similarly, emerging talents who are regular fixtures in the Test side and white-ball teams could find themselves on a more level playing field financially, without the massive gap previously created by the A+ tier .

The New Three-Tier System: A Simplified Approach

The proposed overhaul aims to streamline the contract system into a simpler three-tier model: A, B, and C . This move is designed to close the significant pay gap that existed between the A+ and A categories, fostering a more cohesive team environment and ensuring that players who are consistently available for national duty are fairly rewarded, regardless of whether they are deemed “superstars.”

Here’s a quick look at what the new structure might entail:

  • Grade A: For the core, all-format players who are the mainstays of the Indian team.
  • Grade B: For senior players who are format specialists (like ODI-only players) or key performers in two formats.
  • Grade C: For fringe players and those who are in and out of the squad but still contribute regularly.

What This Means for the Future of Indian Cricket

This proposed change is more than just a financial adjustment; it’s a philosophical statement from the BCCI. It signals a shift from a superstar-driven model to one that emphasizes collective strength, availability, and adaptability. The board is clearly prioritizing a robust bench strength and a system that can seamlessly transition between different formats without over-relying on a few aging icons.

For fans, this could mean a more dynamic and competitive team selection process. For young players, it opens a clearer and more equitable path to the top. However, it also raises questions about how the board will continue to honor and retain the services of its biggest global ambassadors, whose brand value extends far beyond the boundary ropes [[INTERNAL_LINK:bcci-revenue-and-brand-value]].

Conclusion: A Necessary Evolution or a Step Too Far?

The potential scrapping of the A+ category in the BCCI central contracts is a bold and necessary evolution for a board that manages the world’s richest cricket ecosystem. While the demotion of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to Grade B might seem like a slight to their legendary status, it’s actually a pragmatic response to their own career choices and the sport’s changing demands. This overhaul isn’t about diminishing their legacy; it’s about building a sustainable and balanced future for Indian cricket that can thrive long after their final innings. The real test will be in the execution—ensuring that the new system rewards merit, encourages availability, and maintains the high standards that fans have come to expect.

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