The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to unveil the central contracts for the India men’s team for the 2025–26 cycle shortly, with the announcement likely to come around the New Year. Sources indicate that the upcoming list could feature several notable changes, reflecting recent shifts in roles, formats played, and long-term planning by the selectors.
Traditionally, the BCCI releases its annual contract list towards the latter part of the domestic season. However, this time the board appears keen to move earlier, even as the 2025–26 domestic calendar continues. The intention is believed to be clarity around player status ahead of major international assignments.
Senior Players May See Category Adjustments :-
One of the key talking points ahead of the announcement revolves around senior players. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli having stepped away from Test cricket, discussions are reportedly underway regarding a revision in their contract grades. While both remain central figures in Indian cricket, their reduced involvement across formats could influence their placement.
Meanwhile, Shubman Gill is expected to be rewarded for his growing responsibility within the setup. Having taken on leadership roles in recent months, the opener is widely tipped to move into the top contract bracket after previously featuring in the A category.
Uncertainty Around All-Format Regulars :-
Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah, both long-standing members of the elite group, could also see changes to their contract status. Workload management, injuries, and availability across formats are said to be factors under consideration as the board reassesses its structure.
Fast bowler Mohammed Shami and Bengal pacer Mukesh Kumar may find themselves outside the contract list this time. Shami has not represented India since early 2025, while Mukesh’s international appearances have been limited since mid-2024.
Young Players in Line for Upgrades :-
Several emerging cricketers are reportedly in contention for improved contracts following consistent involvement with the national side. Players such as Tilak Varma, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Dhruv Jurel, and Harshit Rana have all featured across multiple formats or been part of Test squads since the last contract cycle.
Their increased presence and adaptability across formats have strengthened their case as India continues to build depth for the future.
BCCI Central Contracts: 2024–25 Player Lists :-
| Grade | Players |
|---|---|
| A+ | Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja |
| A | Rishabh Pant, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya |
| B | Suryakumar Yadav, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal |
| C | Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, Ravi Bishnoi, Washington Sundar, Mukesh Kumar, Sanju Samson, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Rajat Patidar, Dhruv Jurel, Sarfaraz Khan, Nitish Reddy, Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma, Akash Deep, Varun Chakravarthy |
What to Expect Next :-
The upcoming contract list is expected to underline the BCCI’s evolving priorities, with a sharper focus on format commitment, fitness, and long-term availability. While senior names will continue to command respect, the structure is likely to reward players contributing consistently across formats.
An official confirmation from the board is expected soon, bringing clarity to player status ahead of a packed international calendar.
