BCCI Secretary Explains Why Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Face Pay Cuts

In a major move to “simplify” the Indian cricket board’s financial structure, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia has confirmed that the elite A-plus (A+) central contract category is set to be abolished. This decision directly impacts Indian icons Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who are expected to see a significant drop in their annual retainers.

The End of the A-Plus Category

Introduced in 2018, the A-plus category was reserved for “all-format” players, offering an annual retainer of Rs 7 crore. However, with the landscape of Indian cricket shifting, Saikia explained that the criteria for this tier are no longer being met by many senior stars.

“The criteria we have set to qualify a player for A-plus are not being fulfilled as some players have decided not to play in all three formats,” Saikia told Sportstar. “A one-format player will not be eligible for the top bracket.”

Key Details of the Contract Overhaul

• The Demotion: Since Kohli and Rohit have retired from T20Is and Tests (playing only ODI cricket now), they are likely to be moved to Grade B, which currently offers Rs 3 crore—a potential 57% pay cut.
• The Exception: Jasprit Bumrah is expected to retain his top-tier salary (likely Rs 7 crore in a revamped Grade A) as he remains the leader of the pace attack across all formats.
• The “Simplification”: The BCCI plans to move from a four-tier system (A+, A, B, C) back to a three-tier structure (A, B, C).
• Future Leaders: Shubman Gill, who now leads India in Tests and ODIs, is slated to join Bumrah in the highest bracket.

Current vs. Proposed Retainers

Saikia emphasized that there is “no heartburn” among the players regarding the decision, noting that the shift is a logical response to players choosing format specialization over the grueling three-format schedule.