Attention was drawn when the BCCI revealed the annual central contracts for the men's team, particularly due to the exclusion of Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan—two players recently involved in India's 2023 World Cup efforts—who failed to adhere to the board's request to participate in domestic cricket. Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of the selection committee, firmly supported this decision, leading to the immediate removal of Iyer and Kishan from the central contracts. As the contracts are up for renewal again, similar, if not more significant, changes are anticipated. While Iyer is likely to regain his contract, Kishan's future remains uncertain.

According to a report from Dainik Jagran, the selectors may implement further changes to the central contracts. Chief selector Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia are scheduled to convene on March 29 in Guwahati to deliberate on India's potential squad for the upcoming tour of England in June, following the IPL. During this meeting, they are also expected to finalize the central contracts for the men's team.

It is worth noting that the contracts for the women's team were announced last week after a meeting. The report indicated that the selection committee is divided regarding the future of several prominent Indian players. While specific names were not disclosed, it was suggested that captain Rohit Sharma, star batter Virat Kohli, and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja were under consideration.

Currently, Rohit, Kohli, and Jadeja are classified in the A+ category of the annual contract system, which is the highest tier typically reserved for players participating in all formats. Given that Kohli, Rohit, and Jadeja have retired from T20 internationals, it would be reasonable for them to be reassigned to the A category.

According to a report from PTI, there has not been a consensus regarding Rohit as the automatic choice for captaincy. Concerns about Jasprit Bumrah's fitness and the absence of a clear leadership candidate among the younger Indian players further complicate the situation.

Rohit faced significant pressure to perform in Dubai, especially after a 1-3 series defeat in Australia highlighted his struggles. However, the successful campaign in the UAE has certainly bolstered his standing.

Multiple changes in central contracts; Abhishek, Nitish, Rana confirmed new entries

Currently, it seems that only Bumrah is assured of maintaining his A+ category central contract. ODI vice-captain Shubman Gill, who was previously in the A category, may be elevated to the top tier, while Yashasvi Jaiswal, who was in the B category, could advance to the A category. Additionally, all-rounder Axar Patel is also a candidate for promotion from the B category to the A category.

Confirmed new additions to the C category include Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, and Abhishek Sharma. To qualify for this category, a player must have represented India in at least 3 Tests, 8 ODIs, or 10 T20Is within the designated timeframe. Ruturaj Gaikwad may struggle to maintain his position in the C category, as his last appearance for India was in July 2024.

Read Also: Virat Kohli Wins Hearts with Warm Gesture for Young CSK Fan Ahead of RCB’s Titanic IPL Clash at Chepauk

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