The Cricket Association of Bengal has decided to pay from its own chest the ₹1 crore prize to its Ranji Trophy team for being the runners-up this season. The State cricket association is yet to get the cheque from Board of Control for Cricket in India.
The delay has also because the BCCI staff had been working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“To us, the interest of our cricketers is paramount. Hence, we decided to release the prize money to the Bengal Senior team on our own and not wait for the Board to release it to us and then reimburse the same to the players and support staffs,” CAB president Avishek Dalmiya has reportedly said.
“The necessary formalities have been completed and documents signed by secretary and treasurer. We expect the amount to reach their bank accounts in the next 48 hours,” Avishek said in a statement.
“Simultaneously, necessary invoices have also been raised to the BCCI so we expect the Prize Money amount to be sent to the Association later this week. Once we receive that, the same would be adjusted against the payments made to the players on account of prize money.”
Dalmiya has also assured that the amount will be transferred to the respective players bank accounts by Wednesday.
The payment has been expedited after the issue was raised by several players during the virtual e-session with coach Arun Lal to enhance the team bonding.
Saurashtra had denied Bengal the glory on way to their maiden Ranji Trophy title triumph.