The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken a significant step to prioritize Test cricket with the introduction of the “Test Cricket Incentive Scheme.” This scheme offers substantial financial rewards to players who commit to the longest format of the game.
Hefty payday for consistent performers like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma
Under the scheme, India Cricket Team players who participate in at least 75% of a season’s scheduled Tests will receive a hefty Rs 45 lakh incentive per match, on top of the existing Rs 15 lakh match fee. This translates to a potential windfall of Rs 4.5 crore for a player featuring in all 10 Tests of a season.
Case in Point: Rohit Sharma earnings
Let’s take Indian skipper Rohit Sharma as an example. Having played all 10 Tests in the 2023-24 season, he would stand to earn a cool Rs 1.5 crore in match fees (Rs 15 lakh x 10). Adding the Rs 4.5 crore Test incentive, his total earnings from Test cricket alone reach a staggering Rs 6 crore. This doesn’t even include his annual retainer fee of Rs 7 crore, bringing his total earnings to a remarkable Rs 13 crore.
Incentive Structure Explained
The scheme caters to players with varying levels of participation. Those featuring in less than 50% of the Tests (less than 4 or 5 matches in a nine-Test season) receive only the standard match fee (Rs 15 lakh for playing, half that amount for reserves).
However, players who participate in 50% to 75% of the Tests (5 to 6 matches) receive an additional Rs 30 lakh per match as an incentive. For instance, a player who plays six Tests would earn Rs 90 lakh in match fees (Rs 15 lakh x 6) and Rs 1.8 crore in incentives (Rs 30 lakh x 6), totaling Rs 2.70 crore.
Retroactive Application and Financial Outlay
The scheme applies retroactively, meaning players who participated in the 2022-23 season will also benefit. The BCCI estimates an expenditure of around Rs 45 crore for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons combined.
More Than Just Money: Message of Importance
While the financial rewards are significant, the scheme also sends a strong message about the BCCI’s commitment to Test cricket. It aims to incentivize players to prioritize the format and ensure the continued strength of the Indian Test team.
A Win-Win Situation
The Test Cricket Incentive Scheme is a win-win for both players and the BCCI. Players are financially rewarded for their dedication to Test cricket, while the BCCI ensures a strong player pool for the longest format. This renewed focus on Test cricket can further enhance its popularity and competitiveness, exciting fans worldwide.
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