The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced its Annual Central Contracts for the 2025-26 season. While stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have retained their positions in the prestigious Grade A+ category along with Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja, the exclusion of veteran pacer Mohammed Shami has sent shockwaves through the cricketing community.

Shami, who was a standout performer in the last ODI World Cup, has been struggling with injury issues for a significant period. His complete absence from the contract list suggests that the selectors might be looking beyond the experienced pacer or waiting for a full fitness clearance. On the other hand, young talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill have secured their spots, reflecting the board’s focus on the future. The exclusion of Shami remains the biggest talking point of this year’s announcement.