BCCI announces 100 percent hike in monthly pension

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a hundred percent hike in the monthly pension of former players for both men and women and former umpires as well.

This enables First-Class players, who received 15,000 Rs earlier will now get 30,000, while former Test cricketers, who got Rs 37,500, will now get Rs 60,000. 

Women international players will now get Rs 52,000 as opposed to Rs 30,000. First-Class players who retired before 2003 will receive Rs 45,000 under the new policy.  

Speaking about the decision, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly in a statement, 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." 

As many as 900 people will benefit from this decision taken by the board, which also includes non-playing personnel like statisticians and scorers.

BCCI secretary and ACC President also spoke about the development. He stated, "The welfare of our cricketers, be it former or present is a top priority, and increasing pension amounts is a step in that direction. 

The BCCI values the contribution the umpires have made over the years, and this is one way to express our gratitude for their diligent services to Indian Cricket. 

A total of around 900 personnel will get the benefit of the scheme with more than 75% of the beneficiaries getting a 100 % raise.

The hike will be effective from June 1, 2022.

BCCI Honorary Treasurer Arun Singh Dhumal also sounded pleased and expected this increase to help former contributors to the game.

"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," Dhumal said.