The much-awaited central contracts for Indian cricketers are likely to be released soon, with few surprises anticipated in the revised list. While the majority of the inclusions will be based on set criteria, the BCCI is said to be weighing a couple of exceptions for up-and-coming players who have impressed despite not having officially met the eligibility criteria. According to cricbuzz, there are four names emerging that are likely to receive the BCCI central contract for 2025.
Abhishek Sharma
Among the contenders is Abhishek Sharma, the aggressive left-handed batter from Punjab and Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL. His show has been making waves, and the 24-year-old is likely to get a Grade C contract, which comes with an annual retainership of ₹1 crore.
As per the BCCI standard policy, “athletes who meet the criteria of playing a minimum of three Tests or eight ODIs or 10 T20Is within the specified period will automatically be included in Grade C on a pro-rata basis.” as quoted by Cricbuzz
Abhishek was a part of 17 T20Is in all and has played in 12 T20Is between October to September.
Nitish Reddy
Along with him in the running is 21-year-old all-rounder Nitish Reddy of Andhra Pradesh. Having played five Tests and four T20Is, including all five games in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia, Reddy is thought to have done enough to earn a central contract place.
Harshit Rana
Kolkata Knight Riders’ pacer Harshit Rana is also in the mix. Although he hasn’t met the format-specific match requirements having played just two Tests, five ODIs, and a single T20I his overall appearance count across formats may work in his favor for inclusion.
Varun Chakaravarthy
Varun Chakaravarthy, who has played four ODIs and 18 T20Is for India, is another name that is rumored to make the cut. Shreyas Iyer, who had a stellar performance in the recently held Champions Trophy, is also likely to make it back onto the list.
Rohit, Virat, Jadeja & Bumrah In A+ Category
The elite names, the stalwarts that they are, such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravindra Jadeja, will all keep their place in the A+ category. With a few minor tweaks excepted, overall composition and gradings will more or less be as before.
The official list is expected to be announced over the next couple of days, along with any eventual changes to the Indian team’s support staff. The decisions have apparently been made, according to sources.
