The Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) release of its central contracts for the 2025-26 season on February 9, 2026 has sparked significant debate, with prominent voices criticizing the placement of all-rounder Axar Patel in Grade C.
Former Indian cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra publicly questioned the logic behind the move, highlighting a perceived discrepancy between Patel’s on-field role and his contractual remuneration.
The Core of the Criticism
Chopra expressed bewilderment at Patel’s demotion from Grade B to Grade C, arguing it fails to reflect his status as a genuine three-format asset for the national team. He emphasized Patel’s current role as the T20I vice-captain during the ongoing 2026 T20 World Cup and his consistent contributions across Test, ODI, and T20I cricket.
“The rationale becomes hard to understand,” Chopra stated, suggesting that if specialists in fewer formats are placed higher, then established multi-format players like Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, and KL Rahul should command superior grades. He also noted the inclusion of key pacer Arshdeep Singh in Grade C as another point of contention.
Contract Structure & Financial Implications
For the cycle running October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026, the BCCI has streamlined the categories, removing the A+ tier. The revised structure is:
- Grade A (Top Tier): ~₹5 crore annually. Includes Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja.
- Grade B: ~₹3 crore annually. Includes Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Kuldeep Yadav, Suryakumar Yadav.
- Grade C: ~₹1 crore annually. Includes Axar Patel, Sanju Samson, Arshdeep Singh, Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Patel’s Consistent Track Record
Patel’s recent performances underscore his value:
- T20 World Cup 2024: Played a pivotal role in India’s title win, scoring a crucial 47 in the final.
- Champions Trophy 2025: Contributed 109 runs and 5 wickets in India’s victorious campaign.
- T20 World Cup 2026 (opener vs USA): Took 2/24 and scored 14 runs.
A Lingering Debate on Player Valuation
The contract list has ignited a broader conversation about the metrics used to evaluate player contributions. With a packed 2026 calendar ahead, performances in major tournaments like the ongoing T20 World Cup may intensify calls for a reevaluation of how all-format utility and leadership roles are weighted in the BCCI’s contractual framework.