The ICC’s all-powerful board meeting in Durban yielded significant developments in the world of cricket, with the BCCI solidifying its position as a financial powerhouse through the unanimous passing of the revenue distribution model. Additionally, the ICC has imposed a limit on the number of overseas cricketers allowed to participate in various leagues, capping it at four players per playing XI. This move aims to safeguard the international version of the game from the growing influence of T20 leagues worldwide.
While the specific revenue share for the BCCI was not disclosed in the ICC media release, it is estimated that the Indian board will generate around USD 230 million annually from the USD 600 million pool for the next four years. This accounts for approximately 38.4 percent, significantly surpassing the earnings of other cricket boards such as the ECB, which is expected to receive around USD 41 million (6.89 percent), and Cricket Australia, set to obtain USD 37.53 million (around 6.25 percent). The margin between the BCCI and other boards is substantial.
The ICC release stated, “The ICC Board also confirmed the largest ever investment into the sport after the distribution model for the next four years was agreed,” highlighting the increased funding that all member boards will receive. Each member will benefit from enhanced financial support, with a strategic investment fund dedicated to driving global growth initiatives aligned with the ICC Global Growth Strategy.
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A member of the ICC board confirmed that the BCCI’s share was fair and reflected its contributions to the sport’s growth. The BCCI, under the visionary leadership of Jay Shah, has exemplified excellence in various areas, including the Women’s IPL, equitable pay for women cricketers, and the global proliferation of the sport through the IPL.
ICC chairman Greg Barclay explained the rationale behind the revenue distribution model, stating that all members will receive a base distribution, with additional revenue dependent on their contribution to the game both on and off the field. This unprecedented investment in cricket presents a unique opportunity for member boards to accelerate growth, engage more players and fans, and foster competitiveness.
In order to protect international cricket from the impact of T20 leagues, the ICC has mandated that all new events must include a minimum of seven homegrown players or players from associate member nations in their playing XIs. This requirement aims to prevent the mass retirement of T20 specialists from top cricketing nations. Host boards of T20 leagues will also be required to pay a solidarity fee to the home board of an overseas player.
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Furthermore, the Chief Executives’ Committee approved changes to over-rate sanctions in Test cricket to strike a balance between maintaining over-rates and ensuring appropriate remuneration for players. Players will now face a fine of 5 percent of their match fee for each over short, up to a maximum of 50 percent. If a team is bowled out before the new ball is due at 80 overs, no over-rate penalty will be applied, even if there is a slow over-rate. This replaces the current threshold of 60 overs.
The decisions made at the ICC board meeting aim to promote the growth and sustainability of international cricket while addressing concerns related to the rise of T20 leagues. These measures prioritize the development of the game, protect the interests of member boards, and create a more competitive and engaging cricketing landscape.
