'There is a big gap in pay, we need more support' - Shafali Verma bats for higher pay

The pay gap between the Men’s and Women’s cricket teams is an issue that is getting traction in the world after the popularity of the eve’s game increased after the ICC Women’s World Cup in 2017, which garnered huge TRP and ratings for the broadcaster and made the audience sit up and watch women’s cricket again.

The young Indian batting sensation Shafali Verma pointed out the difference between the pay of the Indian men’s and women’s teams. Especially after seeing the pay of the Australian women’s team. The likes of Ellyse Perry, Meg Lanning, Alyssa Healy, and other Australian women cricketers are paid as much as the men and play in front of packed stands.

The final match of the fifth edition of Women’s Big Bash league drew huge numbers in Brisbane last year and was played in front of sell-out crowd and it is expected that the T20 World Cup final, at the 100,000-capacity Melbourne Cricket Ground, could attract a record attendance for a women’s sporting fixture, exceeding the 90,185 at the 1999 football World Cup final in Pasadena, California.

“There is definitely a big gap” – Shafali Verma

Shafali Verma mentioned how much more the men’s cricket team was getting paid and how the women’s team needed more support, especially after the audience for the female cricket has increased considerably. However, she admitted that women needed to play better and attract more eyes, in order to improve the situation.

“There is definitely a big gap. The men get so much support and us, after doing so well, we should be supported more. But it again it boils down to playing well. If we play better, then we will slowly but surely get recognition, as does men’s cricket,” Shafali Verma was quoted by New Indian Express.

The male cricketers in the top bracket on BCCI central contracts list are entitled to an annual remuneration of Rs 7 crore, while a female cricketer in the highest category gets Rs 50 lakh for the same period.

On the other hand, star opener Smriti Mandhana also said about the need to performing well before asking for similar pay.