Players in junior and women events will now receive prize money from BCCI

In a landmark move, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the introduction of prize money for player-of-the-match and player-of-the-tournament awards across all women’s and junior cricket competitions at the domestic level. This decision marks a significant step in acknowledging and rewarding the exceptional performances of cricketers in these categories, underscoring the board’s commitment to promoting talent and encouraging excellence in domestic cricket.

BCCI Secretary Jay Shah shared the news on social media, where he also revealed that similar rewards would be extended to men’s cricket. Specifically, players who shine in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy—two of India’s premier domestic tournaments—will also be eligible for player-of-the-match awards. This initiative, Shah emphasized, is part of a broader effort to create a more rewarding and supportive environment for cricketers at all levels of the game.

Shah expressed gratitude towards the Apex Council for their unwavering support in bringing this initiative to fruition. He highlighted the importance of recognizing standout performances in the domestic circuit, which often serves as a crucial platform for cricketers aspiring to represent India at the international level. “Together, we are fostering a more rewarding environment for our cricketers,” Shah tweeted, concluding with a patriotic “Jai Hind.”

This announcement comes on the heels of another significant financial boost in domestic cricket. Last year, the BCCI substantially increased the prize money for various domestic tournaments, setting a new benchmark for financial rewards in Indian cricket. The Ranji Trophy, India’s premier first-class cricket competition, saw its winner’s prize money soar to an impressive ₹5 crore. The Irani Cup also experienced a substantial increase, with the winners now receiving ₹50 lakh, double the previous amount. Similarly, the prize for the runners-up in the Irani Cup was raised to ₹25 lakh.

In addition, the Duleep Trophy, another prestigious domestic competition, saw its prize money elevated, with the champions now awarded ₹1 crore and the runners-up receiving ₹50 lakh. The Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s premier one-day tournament, also saw a boost in financial incentives, with the winning team now receiving ₹1 crore and the runners-up taking home ₹50 lakh.

These initiatives by the BCCI not only recognize the hard work and talent of domestic cricketers but also aim to make domestic competitions more competitive and financially rewarding. By introducing these prizes across different levels of the game, the BCCI is ensuring that cricketers, whether playing in women’s, junior, or men’s tournaments, have their efforts and achievements celebrated, thus motivating them to perform at their best.