Image Credit: BCCI
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 22: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday announced the annual player retainership list for the 2024-25 season, with several notable inclusions and upgrades. The new contracts will be valid from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
A total of 34 players have been awarded central contracts, divided across four categories — A+, A, B, and C — retaining the structure from previous years. The topmost A+ category continues to feature skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravindra Jadeja. The only change in this elite bracket is the omission of veteran spinner R Ashwin, who retired from international cricket in late 2024.
After being excluded last time, both Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan have made a return to the central contracts list, a reflection of their consistent performances and re-entry into the national setup.
In a positive development, Rishabh Pant has also received an upgrade, marking his successful return to form and fitness following a prolonged injury layoff. Additionally, seven players have earned their first-ever BCCI central contracts, signaling the board’s trust in the emerging talent pool.
Learning
The BCCI’s decision to retain the A+ category players reflects their consistent performance and importance to the team. It’s great to see Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan back in the central contracts list after their strong comebacks. Rishabh Pant’s upgrade is well-deserved, considering his resilience and return to form after a tough injury. The inclusion of seven new players highlights the board’s focus on nurturing young talent. How will these contracts impact the team’s performance in the upcoming season?