The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), governing body for cricket in the country, on Monday announced an increase in the monthly pension of former cricketers (men & women) and match officials.
Taking to twitter, Jay Shah, secretary, BCCI, in said: “I’m pleased to announce an increase in the monthly pension of former cricketers (men & women) and match officials. Around 900 personnel will avail of this benefit and close to 75% of personnel will be beneficiaries of a 100% raise.”
Notably, the anouncements made by the Indian cricket board have been the long-standing demands of the Indian Cricketers Association (ICA). The ICA represents Indian cricketers in the BCCI apex council.
Notably, around 900 personnel is likley to be benefited from the decision while around 75 percent of former cricketers and match officials would also receive a 100 percent raise.
Commenting on the decision, BCCI President, Sourav Ganguly, said: “It is extremely important that the financial well-being of our former cricketers is taken care of. The players remain the lifeline and as a Board, it is our duty to be by their side once their playing days are over. The umpires have been unsung heroes and the BCCI truly values their contribution.”
On the other hand, Honorary Treasurer, BCCI, Arun Singh Dhumal, said: “Whatever the BCCI is today, it is because of the contribution of its former cricketers and umpires. We are pleased to announce the increase in the monthly pensions which will be a gesture for the well-being of our former cricketers.”
Meanwhile, other important demands of the ICA include pension for former players, who have played less than 25 first-class matches and also pension for widows of former cricketers and women domestic cricketers.
Significantly, several domestic Indian cricketers had faced financial hardships after the Ranji Trophy was scrapped in the year 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.