Will BCCI Revise the Pay Structure for Women Cricketers in the Upcoming Apex Council Meeting?
Synopsis
The BCCI's upcoming Apex Council meeting on December 22 will focus on revising the pay structure for women cricketers. This crucial discussion comes at a time when disparities in pay persist, especially following significant achievements in women's cricket. With an online format, the meeting promises to address some key financial reforms.
Key Takeaways
BCCI to discuss women's cricket pay structure on December 22.
Current pay for senior women cricketers is Rs 20,000 per match.
Potential adjustments to women’s central contracts are also on the agenda.
The meeting will address financial aspects for both men's and women's cricket.
New leadership elected on September 28 will steer these discussions.
New Delhi, Dec 11 (NationPress) The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to discuss the revision of the pay structure for women cricketers during its 31st Apex Council meeting scheduled for December 22. This online meeting will commence at 7:00 PM.
Among the six key agendas for discussion, the adjustment of payments for women cricketers in domestic leagues ranks second, highlighting its critical nature amid ongoing pay disparities.
According to the last update in 2021, senior women’s players currently receive Rs 20,000 for each domestic one-day match, an increase from the previous Rs 12,500.
For players in the U23, U19, and U15 categories, the compensation stands at Rs 10,000. Additionally, reserve players in all women's tournaments are entitled to 50 percent of the match fee.
Moreover, the restart of the senior women's zonal red-ball tournament necessitates a structured pay scale. Sources informed IANS that revising the domestic pay for women cricketers is a necessary and positive development.
The recent triumph of the Harmanpreet Kaur-led team at this year’s ODI World Cup also raises the possibility of revising the women's central contracts, as ‘Annual Player Retainership Contracts’ is the fifth agenda item.
Currently, the highest central contract for women stands at Rs 50 lakh, which is only half of the lowest men's contract in Grade C. The subsequent contract amounts are Rs 30 lakh and Rs 10 lakh for the next two categories.
The meeting will also address the men’s central contracts, focusing on prominent players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who have stepped back from Tests and T20Is, making their categorization a point of interest.
With Shubman Gill now serving as Test skipper and ODI captain, alongside his role as T20I vice-captain, his central contract grade will garner attention. Additionally, updates regarding umpire and match referee fees, along with BCCI's digital assets, are anticipated.
This marks the first Apex Council meeting since the election of new office bearers, including President Mithun Manhas, Treasurer Raghuram Bhat, Vice President Rajeev Shukla, Secretary Devajit Saikia, and Joint Secretary Prabhtej Singh Bhatia, on September 28.
Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) President Jaydev Shah has also been elected to the Apex Council as a representative of the general body.
Point of View
The BCCI's decision to revise the pay structure for women cricketers reflects a growing recognition of their contributions to the sport. This move is not only essential for promoting gender equality in cricket but also for enhancing the overall standard of women's cricket in India. It’s crucial that these changes are implemented effectively to support the future of the game.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the BCCI Apex Council meeting scheduled?
The BCCI Apex Council meeting is scheduled for December 22 at 7:00 PM.
What is the current pay for senior women cricketers in domestic matches?
Senior women cricketers currently receive Rs 20,000 per match in domestic one-day games.
How much do U23, U19, and U15 women players earn?
U23, U19, and U15 women players earn Rs 10,000 each.
What is the highest central contract amount for women cricketers?
The highest central contract amount for women cricketers is Rs 50 lakh.
Who are the new office bearers in the BCCI?
The new office bearers include President Mithun Manhas, Treasurer Raghuram Bhat, Vice President Rajeev Shukla, Secretary Devajit Saikia, and Joint Secretary Prabhtej Singh Bhatia.
