The BCCI is contemplating an increase in Test match fees and additional incentives to entice players towards the conventional format. This decision follows Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer opting out of domestic cricket to focus on preparing for the upcoming 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL).
Despite warnings from BCCI secretary Jay Shah, these players are steadfast in their reluctance to participate in red-ball cricket. The possibility of removing them from the central contract list is under discussion, but whether a decisive action will be taken remains uncertain.
At present, players receive ₹15 lakh for Test match fees, ₹6 lakh for ODIs, and ₹3 lakh for T20Is. A report from the Indian Express suggests a significant potential alteration in the pay structure for Test matches.
Additionally, players participating in all Test series for the country within a calendar year may receive an extra bonus in addition to their central contract fees.
“For example, if someone plays all Test series in a calendar year, he should be rewarded additionally, apart from the annual retainer contract. This is to ensure that players turn out for more red-ball cricket. This would be an additional perk for playing Test cricket,” a source in the board told the BCCI.
Rohit Sharma discussed the situation in the post-match press briefing after Team India’s victory against England in the fourth Test in Ranchi.
“This (Test cricket) is the toughest format. And if you want success and want to excel in this tough format then you need that hunger. It is very important. We will give opportunity only to players who have that hunger. You come to know the players who don’t have that hunger or players who don’t want to stay here,” Rohit said at the post-match press conference.
While India has demonstrated the ability to succeed without key players, there is ongoing work to be done in refining the team’s structure during the upcoming transition, which is expected to influence performances in overseas conditions.
BCCI aims to raise Test match fees post IPL 2024
The BCCI is set to introduce the suggested increase in match fees and incentive plan after IPL 2024. Team India is in the midst of their commitments in the 2023-25 World Test Championship (WTC). Following the T20 World Cup, they will take on Sri Lanka and New Zealand at home, followed by a demanding five-match away series against Australia.
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