Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Demoted to Grade B, Jemimah Rodrigues in Grade A in BCCI’s Updated Contract Rankings

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has revealed the central contract rankings for the 2025-26 season, marking a significant shift for some of the country’s top cricketers. Jasprit Bumrah, Shubman Gill, and Ravindra Jadeja have been designated Grade A contracts, while prominent players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who are currently participating exclusively in One Day Internationals (ODIs), have been reassigned to Grade B. This realignment comes as the BCCI aims to adapt its contracts in light of players’ current formats and performances.

Overview of Contract Distribution

In total, the BCCI has announced contracts for 52 players, comprising 30 male and 22 female athletes. Noteworthy among the women’s team, Jemimah Rodrigues has earned a promotion to Grade A, reflecting her impactful performances and growing stature within the squad. This restructuring highlights the BCCI’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding players in both the men’s and women’s game while also addressing the changing dynamics of player contributions across formats.

Impact on Players

The shift of Kohli and Sharma to Grade B has sparked discussions regarding their ongoing roles within the national side, particularly as they adjust to focusing solely on ODIs. This decision is indicative of the BCCI’s strategic moves to align its contracts with performance metrics, ensuring that salaries reflect players’ current engagement and contributions to the sport. As experienced players, both Kohli and Sharma remain integral to the Indian cricket team’s setup, even as they transition into different roles in the team structure.

Future Outlook

The BCCI’s recent contract announcements suggest a forward-thinking approach as the organization prepares for upcoming international engagements and competitions. By reassessing contractual structures, the board seems poised to encourage player performance and maintain competitive standards within Indian cricket. The strategic changes could potentially influence team selections and player development pathways, laying the groundwork for future tours and tournaments.

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