New Zealand Cricket (NZC) and the New Zealand Players Association (NZCPA) signed a historic five-year equal pay deal on July 5, Tuesday. The male and the female New Zealand players at both the international and the domestic levels will receive equal pay. It will be applicable across all formats and competitions.
The five-year historic deal is the first in which the male and the female cricketers’ contact has been combined in one agreement, said the NZC in a statement. The NZC, NZCPA, and the six major associations worked towards framing a pay equity policy. Australian gender pay expert Yolanda Beattie’s expertise was also on board during the process.
“This is the most important agreement in our sport, as it binds NZC, the major associations, and our players at the hip, and sets the foundation to fund, grow and develop cricket. It’s been a collaborative yet very robust negotiation. Importantly, it represents a significant step forward as we continue to grow our investment in women’s cricket,” said NZC Chief Executive David White.
Landmark agreement for equal pay!
New Zealand’s professional women’s and men’s cricketers will receive the same pay for the same work on the same day, in a landmark agreement struck between NZC, the six Major Associations, and the New Zealand Cricket Players Association. pic.twitter.com/spdLjSLuC5
— Women’s CricZone (@WomensCricZone) July 5, 2022
The women’s domestic contracts will increase from 54 to 72. Meanwhile, the men will earn higher retainers due to more matches, formats played, and time spent training and playing. The total remuneration for the players includes their retainers fees, match fees, Trust IP payments, retirement fund contributions, and insurance. The players will also retain their ability to play in overseas leagues, including the IPL.
A huge drawcard for young women and girls: Sophie Devine, White Ferns captain on the equal pay deal
White Ferns skipper Sophie Devine welcomed the historic agreement. She expressed that it is great to be recognized in the same agreement as to the men’s cricketers. Sophie also added that the equal pay deal will be a drawcard for young women to take up the sport.
“It’s great for the international and domestic women players to be recognized in the same agreement, alongside the men. It’s a massive step forward. Will be a huge drawcard for young women and girls,” said White Ferns captain Sophie Devine.
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