Indian cricket is celebrating a thrilling Test series win against England and a new policy aimed at boosting the longer format. Just after India secured victory in the fifth and final Test at Dharamsala, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah revealed the “Test Cricket Incentive Scheme” on social media.
Recognizing the growing popularity of shorter formats like the IPL, Shah announced the ‘Test Cricket Incentive Scheme’ on social media. This initiative aims to financially reward players who prioritize Test cricket and consistently commit to the national team in the longest format.
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The scheme kicks off from the 2022-23 season and offers bonuses on top of the existing Test match fee of INR 15 lakh. Players featuring in more than half (around 5 Tests) of a 9-Test season will see their match fees double. This translates to a significant raise – Rs 45 lakh per match for those playing in at least 7 Tests.
I am pleased to announce the initiation of the ‘Test Cricket Incentive Scheme’ for Senior Men, a step aimed at providing financial growth and stability to our esteemed athletes. Commencing from the 2022-23 season, the ‘Test Cricket Incentive Scheme’ will serve as an additional… pic.twitter.com/Rf86sAnmuk
— Jay Shah (@JayShah) March 9, 2024
Non-playing squad members will also benefit, receiving INR 22.5 lakh per match if they participate in over half the season’s Tests. Those involved in 5-6 Tests will get INR 30 lakh per match, with non-playing members earning INR 15 lakh.
This announcement comes amidst concerns about player workloads and a potential decline in Test cricket’s popularity. The scheme is a clear attempt by the BCCI to incentivize players and ensure India continues to field strong teams in the traditional format.
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The news couldn’t have come at a better time for Indian cricket. After a shaky start, conceding the first Test to England in Hyderabad, the team bounced back brilliantly, winning the remaining four Tests convincingly. This emphatic series win over England showcases the talent and passion within the Indian Test squad, and the BCCI’s new scheme looks set to further strengthen their commitment to the format.
