ICC Considers Multi-Million Dollar Fund to Save Test Cricket, Boosts Player Wages

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly considering the creation of a multi-million dollar fund, estimated at $15 million, to help revive the declining interest in Test cricket. This move comes in response to the increasing popularity of franchise-based T20 cricket, which has been attracting players due to the substantial financial rewards and international exposure it offers. The ICC believes that it is necessary to take proactive steps to safeguard the future of Test cricket.

According to a report by The Sydney Morning Herald, Cricket Australia (CA) was the first to propose this initiative in January of this year. The plan has since gained support from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and BCCI secretary Jay Shah, who is a potential candidate for the next ICC chairman.

The proposed fund aims to address several key issues, including covering the costs of overseas tours for financially struggling nations and ensuring that all Test players receive a minimum wage of USD 10,000 per match. This initiative is particularly intended to support cricket boards like Cricket West Indies (CWI), which has faced challenges in retaining its talent, as many players are lured away by lucrative contracts in T20 leagues.

The report states, “The fund would ensure a minimum Test payment for all players, thought to be USD 10,000, and cover the costs of overseas tours for struggling countries.” Cricket Australia chairman Mike Baird expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, saying, “It’s fantastic to see some momentum behind the Test match fund. We need to remove barriers and promote Test cricket as the pinnacle of the sport, preserving its history and legacy alongside newer forms of the game.”

However, the wealthiest cricket boards—BCCI, CA, and ECB—are not expected to benefit from this fund, as their players already receive substantial salaries for participating in Test matches.

Earlier this year, the BCCI introduced an incentive program for India’s senior men’s cricket team, encouraging them to prioritize Test cricket. Under this program, Indian Test cricketers receive an additional payment on top of their standard match fees. Specifically, those who participate in at least 75% of Tests during the annual cycle from September to October earn an extra INR 45 lakh per match. Players who feature in 50-75% of matches receive a bonus of INR 30 lakh per match, while those who are selected in the squad but do not play receive half of the amount under both brackets.

Players who participate in less than 50% of the scheduled matches during the cycle are not eligible for the extra payments. This program is part of the BCCI’s efforts to incentivize and reward players who commit to playing Test cricket.