On Saturday (March 9), BCCI secretary Jay Shah unveiled a ‘Test Cricket Incentive Scheme’ to reward players for their commitment to red-ball cricket.
The declaration came as the hosts defeated England by an innings and 64 runs in the fifth game, winning the five-game series 4-1.
According to the incentive, players would get an extra bonus of INR 30 lakh for playing at least five Tests in a season. The unique incentive of INR 45 lakh is reserved for players who will participate in seven or more matches in the format.
Players who were not in the playing XI will also receive a 50% bonus.
Jay Shah posted on X (previously Twitter):
“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.”
Jay Shah
Jay Shah added:
“Commencing from the 2022-23 season, the ‘Test Cricket Incentive Scheme’ will serve as an additional reward structure on top of the existing match fee for Test matches, set at INR 15 lakhs.”
Jay Shah
The BCCI already pays players INR 15 lakh for each Test match. The extra prize was declared despite numerous players’ lack of familiarity with red ball cricket.
Rahul Dravid hails youngsters for delivering in India’s 4-1 Test series win over England without key players
Rahul Dravid, Team India’s head coach, praised the Rohit Sharma-led squad after the hosts defeated England 4-1 in the Test series. The 51-year-old thanked the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee for offering opportunity to youths such as Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel, Devdutt Padikkal, and Akash Deep, among others.
He commented after the fifth test:
“In various situations, we have been put under pressure. Obviously, we missed a few key players, but we believe there is an incredible amount of talent in India. Terrific to see youngsters do well. Performances were all-round as went down our whole squad, that was the pleasing thing.”
Rahul Dravid
He continued:
“Rohit has been fantastic to work with. He is a terrific leader. The guys gravitate towards him phenomenally, which is fantastic to see.”
Rahul Dravid
Rahul Dravid added:
“Shout out to Ajit (Agarkar) and his team (selection panel) as well. As a coach or captain, you don’t actually get to see a lot of the youngsters that come in. They picked the right ones and they have come here and performed. Not easily being a selector. Big pat on the back for Ajit and his team as well.”
Rahul Dravid
The focus now shifts to the Indian Premier League (IPL), with the reigning champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) facing the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on March 22.