BCCI Announces Central Contracts: These Women Cricketers Hit the Jackpot
Mumbai: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) unveiled the central contracts for the women’s cricket team on Monday, March 24, 2025, bringing cheers to several players who have secured their spots in this prestigious list. The contracts, divided into three categories—Grade A, Grade B, and Grade C—highlight the board’s recognition of talent and performance, with 16 players cutting for the 2024-25 season, spanning October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
Who Made It to the Top Tier?
In Grade A, the BCCI has retained three standout performers: captain Harmanpreet Kaur, star batter Smriti Mandhana, and all-rounder Deepti Sharma. These players continue to be the backbone of the Indian women’s team, and their inclusion in the top category reflects their consistent contributions on the field.
Grade B welcomes four players who have impressed with their skills: pacer Renuka Singh Thakur, batter Jemimah Rodrigues, wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh, and aggressive opener Shafali Verma. Their elevation to this tier is a testament to their growing stature in Indian cricket.
Meanwhile, Grade C features a mix of emerging talents and reliable names, with nine players securing their spots. This list includes Yastika Bhatia, Radha Yadav, Shreyanka Patil, Titas Sadhu, Arundhati Reddy, Amanjot Kaur, Uma Chetry, Sneh Rana, and Pooja Vastrakar. Notably, newcomers like Uma Chetry, Titas Sadhu, and Shreyanka Patil mark their entry into the central contract system, signaling a bright future for the team.
How Much Will They Earn?
According to media reports, the financial rewards align with the grades. Players in Grade A—Harmanpreet Kaur, Smriti Mandhana, and Deepti Sharma—will each pocket ₹50 lakh annually, over and above their match fees. Those in Grade B—Renuka Singh Thakur, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh, and Shafali Verma—will receive ₹30 lakh each per year. The nine players in Grade C will earn ₹10 lakh annually, providing them with a solid foundation as they continue to grow in their careers.
What’s Next for the Team?
The Indian women’s team is gearing up for an exciting phase ahead. They are set to take on Sri Lanka and South Africa in an ODI tri-series starting April 27, 2025. This series will be a crucial stepping stone as the team prepares for the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, which will be hosted on home soil later this year. Having finished as runners-up in the ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25, the team is determined to make a strong statement in the upcoming global tournament.
A Blend of Experience and Youth
This contract list reflects a balanced approach by the BCCI, blending seasoned campaigners with fresh talent. While stalwarts like Harmanpreet, Smriti, and Deepti lead the charge, the inclusion of young guns like Shreyanka Patil and Titas Sadhu shows the board’s commitment to nurturing the next generation. However, notable absences like Rajeshwari Gayakwad hint at a shift in focus toward players who have recently made an impact.
For these 16 women cricketers, the central contract is not just a financial boost but also a recognition of their hard work and dedication. As they prepare to represent India in the upcoming challenges, fans can look forward to seeing their stars shine both at home and on the international stage.
