BCCI Contracts Explained: What You Need to Know

If you follow Indian cricket, you’ve probably heard the term “BCCI contract” tossed around during salary talks or retirement announcements. But what does it actually cover? In simple terms, a BCCI contract is the official agreement between the Board of Control for Cricket in India and a player that spells out how much they’ll earn for representing the country in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. These contracts are the backbone of a player’s income, alongside IPL deals and endorsements.

Understanding these contracts helps fans see why some players retire early, why others push for higher grades, and how the board manages its huge payroll. Let’s break it down without the jargon.

Types of BCCI Contracts

The BCCI categorises central contracts into three grades – A, B, and C. Grade A is the top tier, usually reserved for the most consistent performers. As of the latest cycle, a Grade A player gets around ₹5 crore per year, Grade B about ₹2.5 crore, and Grade C roughly ₹1 crore. The exact figures can shift each year based on the board’s revenue and performance bonuses.

Beyond the basic salary, contracts include match fees. A Test match win earns a player about ₹15 lakhs, a draw ₹10 lakhs, and a loss ₹5 lakhs. ODIs and T20Is have lower fees – roughly ₹3 lakhs per game for an ODI win and ₹2 lakhs for a T20 win. These numbers add up quickly for players who are regulars across all formats.

There’s also a “national cap” bonus for captains and senior members, plus a performance incentive for milestones like 100 wickets or 1,000 runs. All these components are spelled out in the contract, so both the player and the board know what to expect.

How Contracts Affect Player Income

Take Cheteshwar Pujara as a real‑world example. His net worth, estimated at ₹24–30 crore, comes largely from BCCI contracts, test match fees, and a handful of endorsements. Pujara’s consistent presence in the Test side secured him a Grade A contract for several years, which formed the bulk of his earnings.

For younger players, IPL salaries can sometimes eclipse central contracts. A star like KL Rahul might earn ₹16 crore from IPL alone, while his BCCI contract adds another ₹2.5 crore. The mix of league money and central pay creates a diverse income stream, but the BCCI contract remains crucial because it guarantees a baseline even when league contracts end.

Contracts also influence retirement decisions. Players nearing the end of a cycle may negotiate a short‑term upgrade to lock in higher pay before stepping away. Conversely, if a player’s form dips, they might be moved to a lower grade, which can prompt a transition to coaching or commentary.

Finally, the BCCI uses these contracts to maintain a balanced squad. By offering tiered pay, the board rewards top performers while still supporting emerging talent. This structure keeps the team competitive and the payroll sustainable.

So, next time you read about a player’s salary or a contract renewal, you’ll know it’s more than just a number. It’s a carefully structured agreement that shapes careers, fuels the sport’s growth, and keeps fans like us talking about the game.