‘Test cricket was and will be the ultimate format’ - Rohit Sharma lauds BCCI for Test Cricket Incentive Scheme

The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) recently made a huge move after it announced a landmark scheme by the name of "Test Cricket Incentive Scheme." Encouraging players to prioritise Test cricket and rewarding consistent performances in the longest format, the BCCI announced additional match fees for the senior men’s team players. 

It is worth noting that the players who are playing more than 75 percent of the Test matches in a season for India are set to receive a Rs 45 lakh additional fee per Test match. Furthermore, an additional payout of Rs 40 crore has been allocated by the BCCI per season for the scheme.

The board took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to announce the launch of the scheme. “BCCI is 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,” the BCCI tweeted.

The tweet saw Indian skipper Rohit Sharma take notice as he came forward on the social media platform and heaped praise on the board and BCCI secretary Jay Shah for maintaining the sanctity of the longest format. 

“Test cricket was and will be the ultimate format and it’s great to see @BCCI and @JayShah leading the way in prioritising Test cricket,” Rohit Sharma tweeted.

It is also interesting to note that the players who are not in the playing XI of a Test game and are mentioned in the squad will receive Rs 22.5 lakh as an additional match fee per match.

This scheme is designed to inspire our cricketers: Jay Shah

Speaking of the scheme, BCCI secretary Jay Shah came forward to highlight how it is designed to inspire the players to play the longest format and how it aims to rejuvenate the longest format’s impact. 

Also read: ‘Garden mein ghoomne wale bande’ - Rohit Sharma hilariously trolls youngsters after historic series win

"This scheme is designed to inspire our cricketers to contribute their absolute best to the longer format of the game. It is a recognition of the unique challenges and demands that Test cricket poses, and through this initiative, we seek to not only reward excellence but also cultivate a renewed passion for the purest form of the sport," Jay Shah was quoted as saying by IndiaToday.