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Virat, Rohit To Be Demoted? Why Is BCCI Delaying Central Contract Announcement?  

Soumyajit Dutta

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma [Source: @AKSHATOM10/X.com]Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma [Source: @AKSHATOM10/X.com]

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) typically announces its annual central contracts by February 28, but this year, the cricketing world is waiting with bated breath. With the Indian team locked in a high-stakes Champions Trophy finale against New Zealand, the delay in the BCCI central contract announcement has sparked curiosity. 

With several factors on the line, including Rohit Sharma's ODI captaincy on the line, let's take a look at why the board is hitting pause and how the tournament’s outcome could reshape India’s cricketing hierarchy.

Reason Why BCCI Is Delaying Central Contract Announcement

The BCCI is closely monitoring player performances in the Champions Trophy 2025, viewing the tournament as a critical evaluation ground before finalizing contracts. According to The Times of India, the board wants to gauge consistency, leadership, and big-match temperament under pressure. 

Players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja, all part of the elite A+ category, are under scrutiny, especially after retiring from T20Is post the 2024 World Cup and a lacklustre Test season that saw India miss the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

Champions Trophy Final To Act As Redemption Ground

A strong showing in the Champions Trophy could solidify their positions in the top tier. As a source told TOI that the board is awaiting Rohit’s decision on retirement after the Champions Trophy. His recent success in winning the T20 World Cup and strong leadership in the tournament will be considered in the next steps.

Meanwhile, younger talents like Shubman Gill (tipped as a future captain) and Rishabh Pant are strong contenders for promotions, while Axar Patel and KL Rahul might climb to Grade A. Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer, dropped last year over disciplinary issues, is likely to regain his contract after reintegrating into the ODI setup.

BCCI’s Strict Policies For Domestic Commitments

The delay also reflects the BCCI’s no-nonsense approach to domestic cricket commitments. Last year, Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer lost contracts after skipping Ranji Trophy matches. 

While Kishan remains absent from international cricket since November 2023, Shreyas Iyer’s ODI resurgence has put him back in favour. 

The BCCI is also strategically timing the central contract announcement to align with long-term goals. With Rohit Sharma’s captaincy future under discussion, the board aims to ensure smooth leadership transitions.