As the Indian women’s cricket team gears up for the historic Women’s ODI World Cup final against South Africa in Navi Mumbai, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly planning a massive cash reward for the team if they secure victory.
The governing body is considering a financial gesture similar to what was awarded to the men’s team after their T20 World Cup success last year. Following the “equal pay” policy introduced by former BCCI secretary and now ICC chairman Jay Shah, the board is said to be discussing a reward package that mirrors the Rs 125 crore given to the men’s squad led by Rohit Sharma.
Equal Pay Policy Driving Fair Recognition
The men’s team had received Rs 125 crore for their stellar performance in the T20 World Cup, where they defeated South Africa in the final. This precedent has influenced the BCCI’s current discussions about parity in rewards. The sentiment highlights the board’s commitment to gender equality and its intent to offer due recognition to the women cricketers if they emerge champions.
A senior BCCI official revealed, “The BCCI supports equal pay for men and women, and hence there are a lot of discussions that if our girls win the World Cup, the reward won’t be anything less compared to men’s global triumph. But it isn’t nice to make an announcement before they win the Cup.”
From 2017’s Heartbreak To Potential Glory
The potential reward marks a massive leap from the 2017 Women’s World Cup, where the Indian team narrowly lost to England by nine runs in the final at Lord’s. Back then, each player received Rs 50 lakh, while the head coach, Tushar Arothe and support staff were also rewarded substantially. Eight years later, a victory this time could elevate the recognition of women’s cricket in India to new heights.
The prize amount for each player is expected to be nearly ten times more than in 2017, reflecting both the sport’s growth and the BCCI’s evolving approach toward equality and appreciation. If Harmanpreet Kaur’s squad lifts the trophy, the reward will symbolise not just monetary recognition but a landmark in Indian cricket’s commitment to empowering its women athletes.
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