BCCI Considers Ending A-Plus Contract Category

The Board of Control for Cricket in India is considering major changes to its central contract system, including the elimination of the highest-paid A-plus category, which could result in former captains Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma being reassigned to a lower tier.

According to BCCI sources, the selection committee chaired by Ajit Agarkar has recommended scrapping the A-plus category, currently valued at 7 crore rupees annually and reserved for players active in multiple international formats. The proposal aims to streamline the structure into three tiers: A at 5 crore rupees, B at 3 crore rupees, and C at 1 crore rupees. These annual retainers, separate from match fees, provide players with benefits such as access to training facilities and medical support. Final approval rests with the BCCI's apex council, with discussions expected at its next meeting.

The changes stem from evolving player participation. Kohli and Sharma, who retired from Test cricket during the 2024-25 season and have limited their focus to one-day internationals, no longer qualify for the top category, which requires involvement in at least two formats. Sources indicate they would likely shift to the B...