The BCCI central contract system transformed Indian cricket from financial uncertainty to a secure profession. Introduced in 2004, the first contracts offered modest retainers but guaranteed stability. Over two decades, rising broadcasting revenues and the IPL revolution pushed salaries to unprecedented levels. From top retainers of ₹50 lakh to today’s ₹7 crore A+ contracts, the growth reflects the commercial dominance of Indian cricket. Understanding the history of BCCI’s central contracts reveals how the India Cap achieved not only prestige but also lasting financial security for generations of cricketers.
1. Life before central contracts was economically fragile
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Before 2004, Indian cricketers used to depend only on match fees. Injured or dropped players earned nothing, creating insecurity even for established names, which is in stark contrast to today’s BCCI central contract structure.
2. 2004 proved to be a historic turning point
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The BCCI introduced its first central contract in 2004, formalizing annual retainers for senior male players and professionalizing Indian cricket for the first time.
3. Three Simple Grades Define Starting Income
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The earlier BCCI central contract had Grade A ₹50 lakh, Grade B ₹35 lakh and Grade C ₹20 lakh, modest figures now but revolutionary then.
4. Retainers changed the meaning of India Cap
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Guaranteed annual income means players can focus on performance without worrying about injuries or selection gaps, which will fundamentally change the psychology of playing for India.
5. Match fees were once barely affordable
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In the early 2000s, Test players earned approximately ₹2.7 lakh per match and ODI players earned approximately ₹2.21 lakh, highlighting why central contracts were long pending.
6. Gradual salary increase increases confidence
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Between 2007 and 2011, the BCCI steadily increased retainers, with top contracts crossing ₹1 crore, reflecting rising broadcast revenues and player value.
7. IPL accelerates financial revolution
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The IPL exposed the true commercial value of Indian cricketers, prompting the BCCI to re-evaluate salaries and reward players as elite professionals.
8. A+ Category Redefines Elite Status
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In 2017, the BCCI introduced the A+ grade at ₹7 crore annually, creating a visible gap for stars across formats and rewriting the global cricket pay scale.
9. Today’s structure is built on stability
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The current slabs of A+ ₹7 crore, A ₹5 crore, B ₹3 crore and C ₹1 crore have remained unchanged over the years, indicating sustainable valuations rather than inflation.
10. Contracts secure a future beyond stardom
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Central contracts not only ensured long-term stability for superstars, but also strengthened domestic cricket, making professional careers viable in the Indian cricket pyramid.