Ex-Captain of India Sunil Gavaskar calls for BCCI to triple Ranji player fees
Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India to prioritize domestic cricketers, particularly those competing in the prestigious Ranji Trophy.
While praising the BCCI’s recent announcement of financial rewards for Test cricketers, Sunil Gavaskar emphasized the need to strengthen the foundation.
Gavaskar said, “The BCCI’s move to reward Test players is commendable. However, it’s crucial to ensure the Ranji Trophy, the feeder system for the national team, is well-supported.”
Gavaskar believes tripling the current match fees for Ranji players would significantly improve the tournament.
He explained, “Better compensation would incentivize participation and minimize player pull-out. A good fee would discourage players like Ishan Kishan from opting out for other reasons.”
Gavaskar concurred with Rahul Dravid, the Indian head coach, who previously stated that these financial rewards should be seen as recognition rather than mere incentives.
He suggested a “slab system” where players receive progressively higher compensation based on the number of first-class matches played.
Gavaskar also advocated for longer breaks between Ranji matches, a request echoed by many players.
“The current three-day gap barely provides time for recovery between matches,” he noted. “Players need proper time to address niggles and maintain fitness with a physiotherapist.”