The BCCI’s 2025-26 central contracts were announced on February 9, 2026. This announcement highlights performance rewards, with Jemimah Rodrigues making her mark as a key player in Indian Cricket. The list celebrates those who contributed to India’s first World Cup victory while also emphasizing the importance of fitness and availability, leading to notable absences among established players.
Jemimah Rodrigues joins Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana in elite Grade A tier
Rodrigues has been elevated to Grade A, joining Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, and Deepti Sharma. This promotion comes after her impressive performance during the ODI World Cup 2025, where she was a pivotal player, especially noted for her century in the semi-final against Australia. With this upgrade to the INR 50 lakh tier, the BCCI acknowledges her growth into a leading role and a reliable player in crucial matches. This shift reflects a new focus on consistent performance over seniority in the squad.
Shreyanka Patil and Pooja Vastrakar omitted from BCCI central contracts 2025-26
Notably, Shreyanka Patil and Pooja Vastrakar have been left off the central contract list. They held Grade C contracts last year but faced long injury rehabs, totaling about 14 months. Despite Patil’s recent achievements in the WPL, the BCCI has adopted a fitness-first strategy. Players now need to meet specific match counts to retain their contracts, a policy that emphasizes ongoing availability.
7 new players earn first BCCI contracts including Pratika Rawal
The 2025-26 cycle brings a significant change, with seven players receiving their first BCCI contracts after India’s success on the global stage. Many of these new players had standout performances in the World Cup and have quickly advanced to the senior team.
- Pratika Rawal & Kranti Gaud: Earn Grade B and C slots respectively, following Rawal’s 300 runs in the World Cup and Gaud’s impressive bowling in England.
- Sree Charani: Joins Grade C after being India’s second-highest wicket-taker at the World Cup.
- G Kamalini & Vaishnavi Sharma: Rewarded after their successful senior debuts following their U19 T20 World Cup victory.
- Kashvee Gautam & Tejal Hasabnis: Added to Grade C as the BCCI aims to expand its talent pool.
Core players retain positions in Grades B and C
In addition to new entrants, several key players maintain their positions in Grades B and C. Renuka Singh Thakur, Shafali Verma, and Richa Ghosh continue in Grade B, providing strength as key hitters and bowlers. In Grade C, reliable players like Radha Yadav, Arundhati Reddy, and Amanjot Kaur remain to ensure team depth across formats.
Also, Yastika Bhatia stays in Grade C while recovering from knee surgery, highlighting the board’s faith in her abilities. This group prepares to support India‘s title defense in 2026, blending experienced players with fresh talent.
Full BCCI women’s central contracts 2025–26
| Grade | Annual Retainer (INR) | Players |
|---|---|---|
| Grade A | 50 Lakh | Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma |
| Grade B | 30 Lakh | Renuka Thakur, Shafali Verma, Richa Ghosh, Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav, Amanjot Kaur, Pratika Rawal, Kranti Gaud, Uma Chetry, Arundhati Reddy |
| Grade C | 10 Lakh | Sree Charani, Yastika Bhatia, Harleen Deol, Kashvee Gautam, G Kamalini, Vaishnavi Sharma, Tejal Hasabnis |
