In an effort to champion Test cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled the 'Test Cricket Incentive Scheme' for the senior men's team. This scheme, announced by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, aims to provide additional financial incentives to players participating in the longest format of the game.

"I'm delighted to introduce the 'Test Cricket Incentive Scheme' for Senior Men, designed to offer financial growth and stability to our esteemed athletes," stated Jay Shah in a social media post.

Starting from the 2022-23 season, the scheme will complement the existing match fees for Test matches, which is currently set at Rs 15 lakhs.

Under the scheme outlined by Jay Shah, players who participate in more than 75% of Tests in a season for India will receive Rs 45 lakhs in addition to the regular match fee.

With nine Test matches in a season, players who participate in less than 50% or fewer than four matches will not qualify for the scheme. Those playing five to six Tests (more than 50%) will receive an incentive of Rs 30 lakhs per match if included in the playing eleven, or Rs 15 lakhs per match if not.

For players participating in more than seven matches (more than 75% of matches), the incentive rises to Rs 45 lakhs per match if in the playing eleven, or Rs 22 lakhs per match if not.

This initiative reflects the BCCI's commitment to enhancing Indian players' involvement in Test cricket.

Following India's victory in the fourth Test against England, captain Rohit Sharma emphasized the importance of players valuing and demonstrating hunger for Test cricket.

During the announcement of the annual retainerships for the 2023-24 season on February 28, the BCCI urged cricketers to engage in domestic cricket when not representing India. This recommendation led to Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan, two young batters who missed Ranji Trophy matches, losing their central contracts.

"The BCCI has advised all athletes to prioritize participation in domestic cricket during periods when they are not part of the national team," stated the Board.

India Dominate with Impressive Batting Display in Fifth Test Against England

Key Battles to Watch in Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Giants Women's Premier League 2024 Match