Christmas Comes Early: BCCI Announces Massive Salary Boost for Women Cricketers
Indian women’s cricket has received a massive financial shot in the arm just before the holidays. In a landmark decision taken during the recent Apex Council meeting on Monday, the Indian Cricket Board approved a significant BCCI pay hike for domestic players. This move aims to make cricket a more sustainable and lucrative career option for women across the country, including aspiring talents under the Odisha Cricket Association.
Breaking Down the Numbers
The new proposal offers a staggering 2.5 times increase in match fees. Previously, senior women cricketers playing in the starting XI received Rs 20,000 per match day. Under the new structure, this figure has jumped to Rs 50,000 per day.
This revision is not limited to just the stars on the field. The board has ensured financial security for the entire squad. Reserve players, who previously earned Rs 10,000 per day, will now take home Rs 25,000 daily.
For the shorter T20 format, the rates have been adjusted pro-rata:
Boost for Junior Cricket
The financial restructuring also covers the junior levels, ensuring that young girls entering the sport see a viable future. Junior players in the playing XI will now receive Rs 25,000 per day (up from Rs 10,000), while reserves will get Rs 12,500.
A Continued Commitment
This decision marks the first major pay revision since 2021. It reflects the board's continued focus on strengthening the women's game, a vision pushed forward during Jay Shah’s tenure and now continued under the new BCCI President, Mithun Manhas.
For women domestic cricketers in states like Odisha, where talent is abundant but resources can sometimes be scarce, this pay rise is a game-changer. It ensures that players can focus entirely on their game without worrying about financial stability.
