BCCI to Reassess Player Contracts Amid Controversy Over Pay Cuts

The BCCI is set to reassess its player contracts for the 2025-26 season after the controversial removal of the A+ category, which has resulted in significant pay cuts for key players like Jasprit Bumrah. The decision has raised concerns within the board regarding fairness and compensation for consistent performers. As the cricketing landscape evolves, the BCCI is exploring ways to ensure equitable pay structures while considering the reinstatement of the A+ category. This article delves into the implications of these changes and the future of player contracts in Indian cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 18, 2026, 11:59 IST

BCCI's Review of Central Contracts

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to evaluate its central contracts for the 2025-26 season following a significant INR 2 crore discrepancy caused by the elimination of the A+ category. Earlier this year, the BCCI revealed its annual retainership list, which omitted the top tier due to a shortage of players excelling in multiple formats.

Impact of A+ Category Removal

Introduced in the 2017-18 season, the A+ grade was designed to reward players who consistently performed across all formats. From its inception until the 2024-25 season, it was the highest pay tier, featuring elite players and offering an annual retainership of INR 7 crore. The other categories included A, B, and C, with respective earnings of INR 5 crore, INR 3 crore, and INR 1 crore annually.

Previously, top players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, and Jasprit Bumrah were included in the A+ category, which has now been removed.

Bumrah's Salary Reduction

The scrapping of the A+ category has directly affected Jasprit Bumrah, reducing his annual retainership from INR 7 crore to INR 5 crore, despite his status as an all-format player. This change was initially suggested by the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, to create a more equitable pay structure.

With the recent retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from T20Is and Tests, and Ravindra Jadeja from T20Is, Bumrah stands as the sole active all-format player, raising questions about the necessity of the A+ category.

Current Pay Structure

The revised pay structure now consists of three categories: A, B, and C, with players earning INR 5 crore, INR 3 crore, and INR 1 crore annually. Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, and Jasprit Bumrah are currently in Grade A, while Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been moved to Grade B due to their retirements from certain formats.

Players such as Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Siraj, and Hardik Pandya are also included in Grade A, reflecting their participation in one or two formats.

Concerns Over Bumrah's Pay Cut

Bumrah, previously the highest earner under the A+ category, has seen his pay cut raise concerns within the BCCI. A source close to the board indicated that the INR 2 crore reduction is viewed as unfair, and discussions are underway to find a way to compensate him.

The board is also considering revising the pay structure as other players may have experienced downgrades despite their strong performances.

Potential Revisions for Other Players

In addition to Bumrah, Axar Patel's annual retainership of INR 1 crore is also under review, given his contributions as an all-format player. Patel has played a crucial role in India's recent successes, including victories in the 2024 and 2026 T20 World Cups.

Both Bumrah and Patel were instrumental in India's recent T20 World Cup win against New Zealand, showcasing their importance to the team.

Future of the A+ Category

The BCCI is contemplating a revision of the pay structure to ensure fair compensation for consistent performers while maintaining balance across all player categories. The reinstatement of the A+ category will be evaluated based on whether the current player pool justifies its return.