BCCI Introduces Cash Awards for Top Performers in Domestic Cricket to Boost Engagement
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/27th August 2024
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to enhance the appeal of domestic cricket by introducing prize money for standout performers across various tournaments. This significant move, announced by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, marks a pivotal step in the Board’s ongoing efforts to elevate the standards and attractiveness of domestic cricket in India.
Starting from the upcoming season, the BCCI will award cash prizes to exceptional players in all major Women’s and Junior Cricket tournaments. This includes prestigious events such as the Vijay Hazare Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which are cornerstones of senior men’s cricket. In addition to these, the Board will also provide financial rewards in junior tournaments, spanning Under-16, Under-19, and Under-23 categories for both men and women.
Previously, the BCCI’s recognition for domestic players was limited to annual awards for top performers. However, the introduction of Player of the Match (POTM) and Player of the Series (POTS) awards across junior tournaments represents a significant shift in how achievements are acknowledged. This initiative aims to make domestic cricket more lucrative and to incentivize young cricketers to perform at their best in age-group competitions.
The new cash rewards system will apply to various junior level tournaments including the Vijay Merchant Trophy for Under-16 players, the Cooch Behar Trophy for Under-19 cricketers, and the CK Nayudu Trophy for Under-23 participants. Similarly, women’s cricket will see the introduction of similar awards for Under-15, Under-19, and Under-23 events. This move is expected to motivate players by providing them with tangible rewards for their exceptional performances and contributions on the field.
In addition to the prize money announcement, the BCCI has also decided to introduce a significant rule change for the CK Nayudu Trophy for the 2024-25 season. The traditional practice of tossing will be eliminated, with the visiting team granted the authority to choose whether to bat or bowl first. This adjustment aims to introduce a new strategic dimension to the game, potentially influencing team tactics and game outcomes.
India’s domestic cricket calendar for the upcoming season is set to commence on September 5 with the Duleep Trophy in Bangalore, followed by the Irani Cup in October. The Ranji Trophy, one of India’s premier first-class cricket competitions, will begin on October 11. The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy will start on November 23, and the Vijay Hazare Trophy will follow from December 21.
By integrating cash rewards and modifying tournament rules, the BCCI is not only enhancing the competitive spirit but also aiming to attract greater talent to domestic cricket. This approach is likely to have a positive impact on the sport’s development at grassroots levels, fostering a more vibrant and engaging cricketing environment across the country.
