Mumbai Cricket Association teases Ishan Kishan with a greater reward for Shreyas Iyer than BCCI's incentive scheme
Updated - 24 Mar 2024, 01:07 PM
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The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has introduced a commendable initiative to incentivize Ranji Trophy cricketers and prioritize red-ball cricket. The MCA will supplement the match fees provided by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) from next season.
This initiative will see Mumbai players receive two separate salaries of equal amounts. Unlike in limited-overs cricket, domestic red-ball matches do not entail designated match fees; instead, players are remunerated based on the number of days they participate.
The MCA is set to become the first association in India to introduce a match fee for players, supplementing the BCCI’s existing structure. The current pay structure varies based on a player’s experience, with amounts ranging from INR 40,000 to INR 60,000 per day.
Players with fewer than 20 career appearances earn INR 40,000 per day. The salary increases to INR 50,000 for those with 21 to 40 matches and INR 60,000 for those with over 40 appearances. This revised pay structure was implemented following the COVID-19 hiatus.
Mumbai Cricket Association Will Be Paying Additional Match Fees – Amol Kale
During the MCA’s Apex Council meeting on Saturday, March 23, it was decided to match the BCCI’s daily allowance for players. MCA President Amol Kale emphasized the importance of increasing player earnings, particularly for those involved in the Ranji Trophy.
“MCA will be paying additional match fees per Ranji Trophy game to each player from next season onwards. For example if a new player is earning Rs 40,000 per day from the BCCI then MCA will pay them Rs 40,000 too. We felt that players should earn more, especially those who play Ranji Trophy cricket. For us red-ball cricket matters the most as Ranji Trophy holds a special place for everyone in Mumbai,” Amol Kale told the Indian Express.
The MCA Recognises The Pivotal Role – Ajinkya Naik
MCA Secretary Ajinkya Naik highlighted the significance of the Ranji Trophy and red-ball cricket in developing cricket talent. This initiative underscores MCA’s dedication to upholding Indian cricket’s legacy and nurturing future talent.
“The MCA recognises the pivotal role that the Ranji Trophy and red ball cricket play in shaping the future of our sport. By aligning with BCCI’s fees and providing additional support, the Apex council aims to create a conducive environment for young cricketers to excel and hone their skills. This initiative reaffirms MCA’s commitment to promoting the rich legacy of Indian cricket and nurturing the talents of tomorrow,” Ajinkya Naik said.
The MCA will have to spend approximately INR 2.5-3 crore per player to implement the new initiative. Despite the increased financial commitment, the decision has garnered unanimous support from the Apex Council, reflecting widespread approval of the move.
In an effort to enhance the status of red-ball domestic cricket in the country, the BCCI has also established a three-member committee. This committee includes Team India head coach Rahul Dravid, NCA head VVS Laxman, and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar.
Mumbai clinched their first Ranji Trophy title in eight years with a commanding 169-run victory over Vidarbha in the final match. The Ajinkya Rahane-led team secured their 42nd title in the tournament’s history, upholding Mumbai’s esteemed legacy in domestic cricket.
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Ajinkya Naik Amol Kale Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Ishan Kishan Mumbai Cricket Association MCA) Shreyas Iyer
