How much are Ranji Trophy players paid? BCCI mull over red-ball revamp in domestic cricket

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is contemplating a significant overhaul in its approach to player compensation, particularly for those involved in domestic cricket such as the Ranji Trophy.

A report from the Times of India, suggests that the BCCI is considering aligning the fees for Ranji Trophy participation with the lucrative salaries earned by players in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

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In a bid to elevate the status of domestic cricket and ensure parity between different formats, the BCCI is evaluating the value of annual retainership contracts, with a specific focus on enhancing the remuneration for Ranji Trophy cricketers.

This move comes in light of concerns regarding the declining quality of the Ranji Trophy in recent seasons, attributed in part to players' concerns over niggles and workload during the tournament.

Acknowledging the importance of revitalizing interest in the Ranji Trophy, the BCCI has allegedly engaged in discussions with key stakeholders, including former cricketer and current head coach Rahul Dravid, skipper Rohit Sharma, and former player Ajit Agarkar. The objective is to explore strategies aimed at rejuvenating enthusiasm for first-class cricket among players and fans alike.

MORE: BCCI central contracts: Grades, players & salaries for annual player retention for 2024

Central to this initiative is the proposal to increase match fees for players participating in Test and Ranji Trophy matches, aligning them more closely with the earnings of players involved in lower mid-level IPL contracts.

The BCCI is seeking recommendations from the Indian team management to ensure that players dedicated to first-class cricket are adequately compensated, fostering a sustainable and balanced cricket ecosystem.

"The board has asked for recommendations from the Indian team management. They are taking a very aggressive approach towards maintaining the sanctity of the longest format of the game. It is imperative that players, who are committed to first-class cricket, are rewarded at a similar level as IPL cricket," a BCCI source told TOI.

"The idea is that if a player plays the entire Ranji Trophy, he should be able to make around Rs 75 lakhs which matches an average IPL contract," the source added.

Salary Structure for Ranji Trophy Players in 2023-24 Season

  • For Ranji Trophy Matches:

    • Players with 41-60 matches: INR 60,000 per day for playing XI, INR 30,000 per day for reserves 
    • Players with 21-40 matches: INR 50,000 per day for playing XI, INR 25,000 per day for reserves
    • Players with 0-20 matches: INR 40,000 per day for playing XI, INR 20,000 per day for reserves 
    • Non-playing squad members: INR 25,000 per day 

  • For Vijay Hazare Trophy:

    • Same salary structure as the Ranji Trophy, but as it's a one-day format event, the pay is per match 

  • For Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy:

    • Players receive INR 17,500 per game 

    • As part of this vision, the BCCI aims to establish a framework where a player participating in the entire Ranji Trophy season can expect to earn approximately Rs 75 lakhs, on par with the average earnings of an IPL contract.

    By bridging the gap between domestic and franchise cricket earnings, the BCCI aims to uphold the integrity and significance of the longest format of the game while providing equitable opportunities and rewards for players across all levels of competition.

    The proposed reforms underscore the BCCI's commitment to promoting the growth and sustainability of cricket at the grassroots level, ensuring that domestic cricket remains a vibrant and attractive pathway for aspiring cricketers.

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