Reports: BCCI to increase Test match fees to lure players towards red-ball cricket

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is contemplating a boost in Test match fees along with extra incentives to lure players towards the traditional format. This move stems from players like Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer's reluctance to engage in domestic cricket, prioritizing preparation for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) instead. 

Despite repeated warnings from BCCI secretary Jay Shah, these players remain steadfast in their decision to skip red-ball cricket. Discussions about potentially excluding such players from the central contract list are ongoing, but whether such a drastic step will be taken remains uncertain. The cricketing fraternity awaits to see the outcome of these deliberations as BCCI seeks to uphold the essence of Test cricket.

“For example, if someone plays all Test series in a calendar year, he should be rewarded additionally, apart from the annual retainer contract. This is to ensure that players turn out for more red-ball cricket. This would be an additional perk for playing Test cricket,” said a BCCI source as quoted by The Indian Express.

Also Read: Reports: Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan to be removed from BCCI's central contracts for missing Ranji Trophy matches

You come to know the players who don't have that hunger: Rohit Sharma

Presently, players earn ₹15 lahks per Test, ₹6 lakh per ODI, and ₹3 lakh per T20I. Reports suggest a significant overhaul in Test match pay structure may be in the offing. Additionally, players participating in all Test series for India within a calendar year stand to receive extra bonuses on top of their central contract fees. The proposed changes highlight BCCI's commitment to bolstering Test cricket's essence and rewarding players for their commitment to the format.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India is poised to introduce a new remuneration model post the conclusion of the upcoming IPL season. Under consideration is an additional bonus structure for players completing all Test series in a season. Rohit Sharma also weighed in on the matter, addressing it post-Team India's victory over England in the Ranchi Test.

"This (Test cricket) is the toughest format. And if you want success and want to excel in this tough format then you need that hunger. It is very important. We will give opportunity only to players who have that hunger. You come to know the players who don't have that hunger or players who don't want to stay here,” Rohit said at the post-match press conference.