PCA Slams ECB Over Lack of Input on The Hundred Pay Boosts

The Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA) and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) are currently locked in a heated dispute. The root of the issue lies in changes to the Hundred’s pay structure, which have sparked widespread criticism among players. The Hundred, a popular cricket tournament introduced in 2019, was meant to revolutionize the sport with its fast-paced format and inclusivity.

The Root of the Conflict

The dispute primarily stems from two contentious changes: the restructuring of salaries for the 2025 edition of the Hundred and the introduction of a restrictive No-Objection Certificates (NOC) policy. These developments have led to frustration among players, with many feelings sidelined in decision-making processes.

Major Objections Raised by the PCA

The PCA has strongly criticized the growing gender pay gap in the Hundred. While salaries for women have seen moderate increases, the overall disparity with men’s salaries has widened. Critics argue that this undermines the progress made in promoting gender equality in cricket.

The ECB’s focus on attracting high-profile overseas players has also sparked discontent. Top salary increases in the men’s competition are set to rise by 60%, while lower bands receive marginal hikes. This creates a sense of inequity, particularly among domestic players who have played a pivotal role in the tournament’s growth.

The PCA has accused the ECB of poor communication and a lack of transparency. Players were not adequately consulted on the new salary structure or NOC policy, leading to feelings of disrespect and exclusion.

Daryl Mitchell, the PCA’s interim chief executive, said, “We have had a strong working relationship with the ECB on player matters for a significant period and there has been a feeling of genuine collaboration. However, this has not been the case in the last few weeks, including the lack of player consultation and clarity on the NOC policy.”

At a PCA summit in October, the ECB presented a different version of the proposed salary changes. The subsequent deviations have further eroded trust between the two organizations.

Breakdown of New Salary Structure

In the men’s Hundred, top salaries will rise by 60%, while lower bands see increases as low as 3-5%. Meanwhile, women’s salaries show more even distribution, but the overall gender pay gap has grown. This uneven distribution highlights a growing divide in how players are valued, raising questions about the ECB’s priorities.

The Players’ Response

Prominent players like Tymal Mills and Sam Billings have taken to social media to express their frustrations. Their comments reflect a broader dissatisfaction within the cricketing community.

Tymal Mills said, “Players in bands three downwards have largely carried and made the competition what it is today, ready to be sold and profited on. Yet, after tax, [they] are essentially getting no salary improvement after four years. First world problems I know but worth pointing out.”

Sam Billings, who has captained Oval Invincibles to back-to-back men’s titles, added: “Remarkable how a category gets a 60% increase yet most others get under 5%… Who has come up with this???”

PCA’s Perspective

The PCA is navigating a transitional phase, with interim leadership at the helm. Despite this, the association has remained vocal about its concerns. PCA interim CEO Daryl Mitchell has emphasized the need for better communication and fairer policies, highlighting the players’ contributions to the tournament’s success.

Mitchell said: “Unfortunately, what was presented to the players and the subsequent conversations that followed has changed significantly.”

The ECB argues that the revised salary structure is necessary to remain competitive in the global cricket landscape. Attracting top talent is central to their vision for the Hundred’s future. The ECB remains optimistic about the tournament’s growth, despite the current controversies.