Big Changes Ahead for Bangladesh Cricket: A+ Category Axed from Central Contracts
In a move that’s sure to spark debate, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has made a bold decision: the A+ category is being completely removed from the upcoming men’s central contract list. But here’s where it gets controversial—this shift isn’t just about restructuring; it’s a direct response to the scarcity of cricketers who consistently excel across all three formats. Is this a step forward or a missed opportunity? Let’s dive in.
The BCB’s cricket operations committee has meticulously prepared a list of 27 players for the 2026 central contracts. While the final approval is pending, insiders confirm that the A+ category—once a prestigious tier—will no longer exist. This change comes after the board’s 2025 decision to revert to a universal grading system, categorizing players into A, B, C, and D instead of format-specific groups. But why the sudden shift? According to a BCB official, “None of our cricketers are currently playing across all three formats regularly, which was a key requirement for the A+ bracket.” This raises a thought-provoking question: Are we setting the bar too high, or is this a necessary standard for elite recognition?
Among the players, Mahmudullah, who retired from all formats, won’t feature in the new list. However, 21 players from the previous contract have retained their spots, joined by six newcomers: Shamim Hossain Patwary, Parvez Hossain Emon, Saif Hasan, Nayeem Hasan, Tanvir Islam, and Hasan Murad. The full probable list includes stars like Litton Kumar Das, Mustafizur Rahman, and Mushfiqur Rahim, ensuring a mix of experience and fresh talent.
And this is the part most people miss—while the contract changes dominate headlines, the BCB is also launching the ODOMMO Bangladesh T20 Cup 2026, starting February 5. This three-team tournament aims to reignite the country’s T20 spirit after the disappointment of missing the ICC Twenty20 World Cup. Led by captains Litton Das, Najmul Hossain Shanto, and Akbar Ali, the teams—Dhumketu XI, Durbar XI, and Duronto XI—will compete for a prize pool of Taka 2.5 Crore. But it’s not just about the money; the introduction of the Impact Player concept adds a tactical twist, promising high-intensity cricket.
BCB officials emphasize that this isn’t a friendly tournament—match fees, prize money, and a fitness camp at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium starting February 1 are all part of the plan to ensure competitiveness. But here’s the question: Will this tournament truly bridge the gap for Bangladesh’s T20 aspirations, or is it just a temporary fix?
As these changes unfold, one thing is clear: Bangladesh cricket is at a crossroads. The removal of the A+ category and the launch of the T20 Cup are bold moves, but they’re bound to divide opinions. What do you think? Is the BCB on the right track, or are they missing the mark? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
