BCCI Is Considering Performance-Based Pay for Players After Test Series Disappointment | Reports

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Cric News India

January 14, 2025 0 653

BCCI Proposes Accountability Measures

According to reports, the review meeting of BCCI addressed India’s recent Test failures, emphasizing accountability and renewed focus on red-ball cricket.

In the wake of India’s 1-3 Test series defeat against Australia, a review meeting held by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has led to discussions about introducing a performance-based variable pay structure for players. The meeting in Mumbai on Saturday saw captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and senior selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar in attendance.

According to a report from The Indian Express, BCCI’s proposed pay structure aims to ensure players are more “accountable” for their performance. “It was one of the suggestions given that players should be held accountable, and if their performance is deemed not fit as per expectations, they should face variable pay cuts,” said a source. This system is expected to follow a corporate-style appraisal model, where a player’s earnings could be impacted if their performance falls short of expectations.

This proposal builds on the incentive system introduced by the BCCI last year to promote red-ball cricket. Players who participated in more than 50% of Tests in a season since 2022-23 received Rs 30 lakh per match, with the amount increasing to Rs 45 lakh for those featuring in at least 75% of games. These incentives were part of a Rs 40-crore corpus aimed at encouraging players to prioritize Test cricket amidst the growing allure of T20 leagues and the IPL.

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Concerns about players showing a lack of intent towards Test cricket were also raised during the meeting. “There was discussion whether the current players were a bit indifferent when India loses a Test match. The team management understands the value of Test cricket, but many players don’t give too much importance to it,” the source added. The board and team management emphasized the need to instil an appreciation for the longest format among the next generation.

India’s recent Test performances have been disappointing. Before the setback in Australia, they endured a 0-3 whitewash at home against New Zealand, ending a remarkable 12-year streak of 18 consecutive Test series wins. The team management has acknowledged the importance of addressing these challenges to restore India’s dominance in Test cricket and ensure the prestige of the India Test cap is upheld.