Mumbai, Mar 11:
The BCCI on Saturday announced the initiating of the ‘Test Cricket Incentive Scheme’ to promote red-ball cricket participation among senior cricketers.
Commencing from the 2022-23 season, the scheme will serve as an additional reward structure on top of the existing match fee for Test matches, set at Rs. 15 lakh.
As per the scheme shared by Honorary BCCI secretary Jay Shah, players who play more than 75 per cent of the Tests in a season for India will receive Rs. 45 lakh along with the additional fee per Test match.
Considering nine Test matches are in a season, players playing less than 50 per cent or less than four matches will not be applicable for the scheme.
Players who play five to six Tests (more than 50 percent) will be given the incentive of Rs 30 lakh per match on being in playing eleven or Rs 15 lakh per match if not included in playing eleven.
Players who play more than seven matches (more than 75 per cent) of matches will be given an incentive of Rs. 45 lakh per match on being included in playing eleven or Rs. 22 lakh per match if not included in playing eleven.
“This scheme is designed to inspire our cricketers to contribute their absolute best to the longer format of the game. It is a recognition of the unique challenges and demands that Test cricket poses, and through this initiative, we seek to not only reward excellence but also cultivate a renewed passion for the purest form of the sport,” Shah said.
This innovative scheme is a testament to BCCI’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding the efforts of Indian players, fostering a sense of financial security and motivation to excel in Test cricket, he added.
“The scheme is a progressive move to acknowledge the significance of Test cricket. This pioneering initiative is intricately aligned with our broader vision, which is focused on the promotion of Test cricket as the undisputed pinnacle of the sport. As we embark on this journey, we are not only recognizing the invaluable contributions of our players but also fostering an environment that values and prioritizes the essence of the traditional format of the game,” Shah said.
BCCI president Roger Binny said: “We are thrilled to introduce the scheme, reaffirming the cricket body’s dedication to the well-being and encouragement of the senior men cricketers. This initiative aligns with our vision of promoting Test cricket as the pinnacle of the sport.”
Vice president, Rajeev Shukla, said: “Test cricket undeniably occupies a special place in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts worldwide. It embodies the essence of the sport, demanding skill, endurance, and a strategic approach.”
