BCCI takes major move to support Test cricket

Following India’s impressive series victory over England, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken a significant step to promote Test cricket. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah announced the ‘Test Cricket Incentive Scheme’ for the senior men’s team, aimed at providing additional rewards for players participating in Test matches. This move is seen as a means to encourage greater engagement with the traditional format of the game and to ensure financial growth and stability for players involved.

BCCI makes a huge announcement

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

The scheme, announced on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), will offer players extra incentives on top of their usual match fees, with an allocation of Rs 40 crore dedicated to Test cricket.

Renowned cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle highlighted the importance of this initiative, emphasizing the BCCI’s commitment to Test cricket. The scheme outlines different incentive structures based on the number of Test matches played by each player. Those participating in five to six Test matches will receive Rs 30 lakh per match if included in the playing eleven, and Rs 15 lakh if not. Players featuring in more than seven matches will receive even higher incentives, with Rs 45 lakhs per match for those in the playing eleven and Rs 22 lakh for those not included.

Shah quoted earlier in the February;

“There is a trend that has started to emerge and is a cause for concern. Some players have begun prioritising the IPL over domestic cricket, a shift that was not anticipated. Domestic cricket has always been the foundation upon which Indian cricket stands, and it has never been undervalued in our vision for the sport.”

This move underscores the board’s recognition of the significance of Test cricket and its efforts to prioritize it amidst the growing popularity of T20 leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL).

See also: WTC 2023-25 points table update: India leading after convincing series win against England

BCCI added, “It is essential to recognise that domestic cricket forms the backbone of Indian cricket and serves as the feeder line to Team India. Our vision for Indian cricket has been clear from the outset – every cricketer aspiring to play for India must prove themselves in domestic cricket. Performance in domestic tournaments remains a critical yardstick for selection, and non-participation in domestic cricket will carry severe implications.”

The BCCI has been vocal about the importance of balancing participation in red-ball cricket alongside white-ball formats, emphasizing the need for players to continue contributing to the heritage and legacy of Test cricket at both international and domestic levels.