Even after delivering stellar performances on the international stage, India’s cricketing stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma may face a significant pay cut in the upcoming season. According to the latest ICC rankings released yesterday, Rohit Sharma tops the One Day International (ODI) batsmen rankings, followed closely by Virat Kohli in second place. The 38-year-old Rohit and 37-year-old Kohli continue to defy age, consistently proving their fitness and skill despite scepticism surrounding their longevity. Their recent displays of batting brilliance have put all doubts to rest, yet off the field, the two veterans may face an unwelcome surprise.
Both Kohli and Rohit, who now play only ODIs for India, were categorised under the prestigious A+ grade in the 2024–25 season. However, following India’s T20 World Cup triumph last June, the pair retired from T20 internationals, and they have also stepped away from Test cricket this year. As a result, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering adjusting their contracts and salaries.
Reports from India’s Press Trust (PTI) indicate that the BCCI’s 31st Annual General Meeting (AGM) is scheduled for 22 December, to be held virtually. Senior BCCI officials are expected to deliberate on the future of Kohli and Rohit’s contracts during this session. In the 2024–25 season, the A+ category included Rohit and Kohli alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja. But with both veterans now playing only ODIs, the likelihood of them retaining their A+ grade is slim. A downgrade from A+ to A could see their salaries reduced by 2 crore INR, bringing their annual earnings down from the current 7 crore INR.
Meanwhile, the younger generation is stepping up. Shubman Gill, the current captain in Tests and ODIs, is emerging as a prominent figure in the A+ category. Alongside him, senior all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah are expected to retain their positions in the top tier. Gill, who previously belonged to the A category, is now poised to join the elite group.
Apart from player contracts, the AGM will also discuss potential revisions to umpire and match referee salary structures, as well as updates to the BCCI’s digital platforms. These decisions reflect the board’s ongoing efforts to balance rewarding veteran players while promoting fresh talent and modernising administrative operations.
Despite the pay cut looming over them, Rohit and Kohli’s influence on Indian cricket remains undeniable. Their experience, mentorship, and ability to deliver under pressure continue to inspire both teammates and fans alike.