Mumbai: India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah could face a reduction of Rs 2 crore in his annual central contract salary following structural changes introduced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Despite playing a crucial role in India’s T20 World Cup-winning campaign, the pacer’s retainership may drop from Rs 7 crore to Rs 5 crore under the revised contract system.
According to reports, the reduction is the result of a major restructuring in the BCCI’s central contract categories, which has led to the removal of the top A+ grade. The move has effectively made Category A the highest tier in the new system.
However, the BCCI is reportedly exploring ways to compensate Bumrah for the financial impact of the change, given his importance to the national team across all formats.
Structural change in central contracts
The reduction in Bumrah’s salary is not linked to performance but stems from the restructuring of the BCCI’s contract hierarchy.
Last season, Bumrah was part of the A+ category, the highest bracket in the central contracts system, which offered an annual retainership of Rs 7 crore.
However, the BCCI has reportedly decided to scrap the A+ category following the Test retirements of senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. As a result, the contract structure has been reorganised, with Category A now serving as the top tier.
Under this revised structure, the annual retainership for Category A players is Rs 5 crore, leading to a potential salary drop of Rs 2 crore for players who were previously in the A+ bracket.
Bumrah placed in Category A
Under the new structure, Bumrah has been placed in Category A, which now includes some of India’s most prominent active cricketers.
He shares the category with Shubman Gill and Ravindra Jadeja, both key players in the national team across formats.
While this still places Bumrah among the top contracted players in Indian cricket, the absence of the A+ category means his retainership is lower than what he received last season.
BCCI considering compensation
According to reports, the BCCI is aware that the restructuring could appear unfair to players who have consistently delivered strong performances.
Sources quoted in reports suggest that the board is exploring ways to compensate Bumrah for the pay reduction.
“The board is trying to figure out how Bumrah can be compensated. It is understandable that it will be unfair to slash his fees from Rs 7 crore to Rs 5 crore,” a BCCI source reportedly said.
The source also indicated that a review of contract valuations could be considered to address similar concerns for other players who may have been affected by the restructuring.
Key player across all formats
Bumrah remains one of the few Indian cricketers currently playing across all three international formats.
His performances in Tests, One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20 Internationals have made him a vital part of India’s bowling attack.
The pacer played a crucial role in India’s successful T20 World Cup campaign, delivering match-winning spells throughout the tournament.
His consistent impact in major competitions has reinforced his status as one of the most valuable players in the national team.
Workload management likely this season
Despite his importance to the team, the Indian management is expected to carefully manage Bumrah’s workload in the coming months.
Reports indicate that the pacer could be rested for most T20I series this season, allowing him to focus on longer formats and major tournaments.
This strategy is aimed at ensuring Bumrah remains fully fit for upcoming international events, particularly the ODI World Cup scheduled for 2027.
Planning for ODI World Cup 2027
India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has already indicated that the team management will soon begin planning for the next major global event.
The management is expected to hold discussions during the IPL months to develop a long-term blueprint for the ODI World Cup 2027.
As one of India’s most experienced bowlers, Bumrah is likely to play a central role in those plans.
Central contracts yet to be officially confirmed
While the details of the restructuring have been widely reported, the BCCI has not officially disclosed the exact monetary value attached to each contract category.
The final list of central contracts and associated payments is expected to be formally announced after the board completes its internal review.
Officials have indicated that any adjustments, including potential compensation measures, will be considered before finalising the contract structure.
Conclusion
The restructuring of the BCCI’s central contracts has created an unusual situation where one of India’s most important players could see a reduction in salary despite strong performances. While Jasprit Bumrah remains in the top contract category, the removal of the A+ grade means his annual retainership could drop by Rs 2 crore.
With the board reportedly exploring ways to address the issue, further clarity is expected once the BCCI finalises the revised contract framework.