The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken another decisive step towards strengthening women’s cricket in the country by significantly revising the payment structure for domestic women cricketers. The move has been widely welcomed, with BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla calling it a landmark decision that will inspire more girls to take up the sport and raise the overall standard of the game.
Under the revised structure, match fees for women cricketers playing domestic cricket have been increased from Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000 per day. Reserve players, who are part of the squad but don’t make the playing XI, will now earn Rs 25,000 per day, up from Rs 10,000. According to BCCI sources, this marks a jump of more than 100 per cent, offering much-needed financial security to players across the squad.
What Rajeev Shukla has to say?
Speaking to ANI, BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla highlighted the broader vision behind the decision. “BCCI has taken a huge step to promote women’s cricket. First, pay parity was introduced at the international level. Now, in domestic women’s cricket, match fees have gone up from Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000 per day, while reserve players will earn Rs 25,000 instead of Rs 10,000. This is a massive increase and will greatly benefit women cricketers. It will motivate more girls to choose cricket as a career, and the quality of the game will improve as a result,” he said.
Things changed after Women’s World Cup 2025
The timing of the announcement couldn’t be more fitting. India’s historic triumph at the 2025 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup has given women’s cricket a massive boost nationwide. Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, India defeated South Africa in a thrilling final to lift their maiden Women’s World Cup title, marking the country’s first-ever global title in women’s cricket. The victory has not only captured the imagination of fans but also underlined the depth of talent in Indian women’s cricket.
Importantly, the revised pay structure goes beyond just the playing XI. By increasing fees for reserve players as well, the BCCI has ensured that the wider squad is rewarded, acknowledging their role in team preparation and performance. It’s a move that reflects a more holistic approach to player welfare.
This decision also builds on the foundation laid during Jay Shah’s tenure as BCCI secretary from 2019 to 2024. Under his leadership, the board introduced pay equality between male and female international cricketers, expanded professional opportunities, invested in grassroots development, and boosted the visibility of women’s cricket across platforms.
One of the most transformative steps during that period was the launch of the Women’s Premier League (WPL). Long demanded by players, the league has provided women cricketers, both from India and around the world with a competitive, high-profile platform. The WPL has not only improved financial stability for players but also allowed them to sharpen their skills alongside some of the best talents in the game.
With increased domestic match fees, sustained investment, and global exposure through leagues like the WPL, Indian women’s cricket appears to be on a strong upward curve. The BCCI’s latest move sends a clear message, women’s cricket isn’t just being supported, it’s being prioritised.
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