In a progressive move aimed at supporting former women cricketers, the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) has announced a monthly financial assistance scheme for players who are not covered under the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) pension system. The decision was finalized during the association’s managing committee meeting held on Monday.
This initiative reflects a growing awareness among state cricket bodies to recognize and support the contributions of women cricketers, particularly those from earlier eras who did not benefit from structured financial systems.
Financial Support Structure for Women Cricketers
Under the newly introduced scheme, international women cricketers from Madhya Pradesh will receive a monthly assistance of INR 12,500. Meanwhile, domestic players will be categorized based on their playing history and will receive financial support ranging from INR 6,000 to INR 10,000 per month.
The scheme is inclusive in nature, covering players who represented both the Women’s Cricket Association of India (WCAI) and the BCCI. This is particularly significant, as women’s cricket in India was governed by WCAI before being merged with the BCCI in 2006.
For players who only represented WCAI, the monthly assistance will depend on the number of matches played:
- 8–15 matches: INR 6,000
- 16–20 matches: INR 7,500
- 21 or more matches: INR 10,000
Similarly, players who represented both WCAI and BCCI, as well as those who played exclusively under BCCI, will also receive financial support based on match participation, with the upper limit reaching INR 10,000 per month.
Special Provision for Senior Players
Recognizing the needs of senior cricketers, MPCA has included an additional benefit for those above 75 years of age. Eligible beneficiaries in this category will receive an extra INR 7,500 per month.
However, due to limited historical records and documentation, the association currently does not have a complete list of eligible players. As a result, the scheme will operate on an application-based system, allowing former players to apply and verify their eligibility.
The scheme is set to come into effect from April 1, marking a significant step toward financial inclusivity in Indian domestic cricket.
Alignment with National Trends
MPCA’s initiative aligns with similar steps taken by other state cricket associations across India. Recently, the Karnataka State Cricket Association introduced a monthly pension of INR 15,000 for women cricketers above 55 years who have represented Karnataka in senior national championships.
Other associations, including those from Bengal, Gujarat, Baroda, and Vidarbha, have also implemented pension schemes to support former cricketers. These efforts collectively indicate a broader shift toward acknowledging the contributions of women in Indian cricket.
Existing BCCI Pension Framework
Currently, the BCCI provides pensions primarily to former international women cricketers. Under its policy:
- Former international players receive INR 52,500 per month
- First-class players who retired before 2003 receive INR 45,000
- Test players with more than 25 matches (retired before 1993) receive INR 70,000
- Players with 75+ matches (up to 2003–04) receive INR 52,500
While these provisions cover a segment of former players, many domestic cricketers remain outside this framework—making MPCA’s initiative particularly impactful.
Increased Support for Men Cricketers and Officials
In addition to supporting women cricketers, MPCA has also approved a revision in pensions for retired men cricketers who are not covered under the BCCI scheme. The revised monthly pensions are:
- Up to 4 matches: INR 7,000
- 5–14 matches: INR 10,000
- 15–24 matches: INR 12,500
The association has also enhanced financial support for umpires. Retired BCCI-level umpires will now receive INR 10,000 per month, while state-level umpires will receive INR 6,500. Those above 75 years will be eligible for an additional INR 7,500.
Furthermore, match officials will benefit from increased honorariums:
- Umpires (inter-divisional matches): INR 5,000 per match
- Scorers: INR 2,500 per day
- Selectors: INR 9,000
Coaches’ incentives have also been revised, although specific figures were not disclosed.
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Chandrakant Pandit Reappointed
In another key decision, Chandrakant Pandit has been reappointed as the Director of Cricket for MPCA for a two-year term.
Pandit has been associated with MPCA since 2020 and played a crucial role in transforming the state’s cricketing structure. Under his guidance as head coach, Madhya Pradesh achieved a historic milestone by winning their maiden Ranji Trophy title.
His reappointment signals continuity and stability in MPCA’s cricketing vision, with a focus on sustained growth and performance.
Infrastructure Development Plans
The managing committee has also approved the construction of new pavilion blocks at cricket grounds in Morena and Narmadapuram. These developments aim to improve infrastructure and provide better facilities for players and officials.
Such investments are essential for nurturing grassroots cricket and ensuring long-term development within the state.
The Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association’s decision to introduce financial assistance for women cricketers marks a significant step toward inclusivity and recognition in Indian cricket. By extending support to players who were previously overlooked, MPCA is setting a strong example for other state associations.
Coupled with increased pensions for men cricketers, enhanced support for officials, and continued investment in infrastructure, these measures reflect a comprehensive approach to cricket development.
As Indian cricket continues to evolve, initiatives like these play a crucial role in honoring the past while building a more equitable future for the sport.