Modifications in the A+ category, currently featuring Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravindar Jadeja, could also be implemented by the BCCI. The top grade is reportedly given to the best performers across all three formats. With Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja stepping away from T20Is following last year’s World Cup and subsequently enduring a disappointing Test season, which led to India missing out on the World Test Championship final, the contracts are now under review.
A solid performance in the Champions Trophy might improve their chances. As per the Times of India, a source revealed that “That board will wait for Rohit’s decision post-Champions Trophy. Should it decide to retire, the board will evaluate the next steps. It should not be ignored that he guided India to a T20 World Cup triumph in July and has displayed strong leadership in the Champions Trophy.
Last year, central contracts were lost by Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan as BCCI took a firm stance on players missing domestic cricket. While international cricket has not been played by Ishan since November 2023, Iyer remains an important part of India’s ODI squad, increasing the likelihood of him receiving a contract this time.
A total of 30 players were given central contracts last year, distributed across three grades: six in Grade A, five in Grade B, and 15 in Grade C. Additionally, fast-bowling contracts were granted to five players, including Akash Deep, Yash Dayal, Umran Malik, Vijakumar Vyshak, and V Kaverappa.
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