Shreyas Iyer had a rough 2024, even after playing a key role in India’s 2024 World Cup campaign and leading the Kolkata Knight Riders to their third IPL title. However, despite his contributions, he was omitted from the BCCI central contract list, a move that shocked many cricket enthusiasts.

Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan were omitted from the BCCI contracts list last year, which came as a huge blow to both the Indian Internationals.

BCCI took a strong stance after both players refused to appear for their respective domestic teams despite BCCI Secretary Jay Shah’s directive to all contracted players to participate in domestic cricket.

Why exactly were Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan omitted from the Central Contract?

Ishan Kishan was expected to play for Jharkhand in the Ranji Trophy but cited mental fatigue as the reason for opting out of the match.

Head coach Dravid, and later BCCI, had directed Ishan to participate in the domestic circuit to be considered for the national team. His refusal to do so has led to him being omitted from the annual contract list.

As for Shreyas Iyer, he cited back and groin pain as the reason for missing Ranji matches for Mumbai, but the NCA had announced him fit. This did not go down well with BCCI

Ishan Kishan was expected to play for Jharkhand in the Ranji Trophy but cited mental fatigue as the reason for opting out of the match.

Head coach Dravid, and later BCCI, had directed Ishan to participate in the domestic circuit to be considered for the national team. His refusal to do so has led to him being omitted from the annual contract list.

As for Shreyas Iyer, he cited back and groin pain as the reason for missing Ranji matches for Mumbai, but the NCA had announced him fit. This did not go down well with BCCI

Despite having a stunning ODI World Cup 2023, where he scored 530 runs in 11 matches, Iyer was dropped from the central contract in February 2024. The BCCI officials and the selection committee weren’t happy with Iyer missing the Ranji Trophy semi-final against Tamil Nadu and decided to axe him

BCCI wanted to bring in a sense of discipline in the Indian squad and took the harsh call of excluding Shreyas from the central contacts.

The omission was a clear message from BCCI that skipping domestic cricket was not acceptable for any cricketer.

Shreyas Iyer was later included and played in Mumbai’s squad for the Ranji Trophy. This helped clear the air for the talented Mumbai player with the Indian board.

The omission from the contract came as a huge surprise as both the players were integral to India’s plans, particularly in white-ball cricket.

Shreyas Iyer was also not selected for the T20I World Cup.

A minimum of 3 Tests or 8 ODIs or 10 T20Is within the contract cycle is needed for a player to be eligible for a contract.

What do the non-contracted Players miss?

• The non-contracted players will receive only the match fee based on the format.

• They are unable to access facilities that were previously available to them, such as the National Cricket Academy for rehab or simply to enhance skill and fitness.

• The risk of a new player taking their position in the national side

Though being excluded from the annual contracts, both players remain key members of their Indian Premier League franchises.

While Ishan Kishan is still due for a comeback, Shreyas made a comeback to the Indian setup after clearing the miscommunication with the BCCI and played a crucial role in India’s winning the Champions Trophy Title.

Shreyas Iyer was the top scorer from the Indian side.

Will Shreyas Iyer be considered for BCCI central contract after missing out in 2024?

• Shreyas Iyer is now eligible in the new contract cycle as  the 30-year-old has played nine ODI matches since February.

BCCI clarified that the current contract is valid until September 30.

In his last nine ODI matches, Iyer has scored 369 runs and has arguably sealed the number 4 spot.

Shreyas played a key role in India’s Champions Trophy 2025 win, scoring 243 runs and finishing as India’s leading run-scorer in five matches.

Shreyas Iyer was extremely effective facing spin bowling, which helped Team India.

Rohit Sharma called him the ‘silent hero’ of India’s success.

Since his omission from the central contract Shreyas Iyer has won IPL 2024, Irani Cup, Ranji Trophy, Syed Mustaq Ali Trophy & Champions Trophy 2025.

As a result, he is set to be rewarded with a central contract by the BCCI.

According to a report by The Times of India, Shreyas Iyer is poised to regain his BCCI central contract.

BCCI’s Delayed Contract Announcement

BCCI has delayed its annual contract announcement, as they wanted to assess India’s performance in the Champions Trophy 2025 following a disappointing run in Test cricket in recent months.

Shreyas Iyer to Join Punjab Kings in IPL 2025

The title-winning Indian Premier League captain, Shreyas Iyer will play for Punjab Kings in IPL 2025,

a fresh challenge after his successful stint with KKR. His IPL impact remains a key factor in his resurgence.

Conclusion

Shreyas Iyer has proved his worth by delivering match-winning performances for India in ODIs, reinforcing his place as a vital asset in the middle order. His return to BCCI’s central contract list seems imminent, ensuring his presence in India’s future campaigns, including preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

With his discipline back on track and his performances speaking for themselves, Shreyas Iyer’s contract renewal is not just a reward but a necessity for India’s continued dominance in white-ball cricket.