The Times of India has unveiled eye-opening details about the per-match salary of Indian cricketers in one of its reports, shedding light on the lucrative earnings of players representing the nation in different formats of the game. Cricket, often regarded as a religion in India, is not only a sport but also a significant source of income for the players who don the national colors. The newspaper states that according to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) contract, Indian cricketers earn a substantial sum of 1.5 million Indian Rupees (approximately 5.056 million Pakistani Rupees) for a Test match.

This figure highlights the importance of Test cricket in the BCCI's payment structure. Test cricket, considered the purest and oldest form of the game, demands immense skill, patience, and endurance from the players. The BCCI's decision to reward cricketers handsomely for their participation in Test matches reflects its commitment to preserving the legacy of this format, even as shorter versions of the game continue to gain popularity. The substantial payout for Test matches also underlines the high stakes involved in this format, where the competition is often more intense and the physical and mental demands on players are considerable.

Similarly, the remuneration for Indian cricketers for an ODI match is 600,000 Indian Rupees (approximately 2.022 million Pakistani Rupees), and for a T20 match, it is 300,000 Indian Rupees (approximately 1.011 million Pakistani Rupees). While the earnings for ODI and T20 matches are lower than those for Test matches, they still represent significant sums, emphasizing the lucrative nature of modern-day cricket. The ODI and T20 formats are particularly popular among fans, given their fast-paced and action-packed nature. The shorter duration of these matches compared to Test cricket means that cricketers can participate in more matches, thereby increasing their overall earnings.

In addition to per-match fees, the BCCI has established a grading system that further categorizes cricketers based on their performance, consistency, and importance to the team. The cricketers are divided into four grades: A+, A, B, and C, each with its own set of monthly retainer fees. This grading system not only rewards players for their current contributions but also provides an incentive for them to perform consistently at the highest level.

Players in the A+ grade, who are considered the most crucial members of the team, have a monthly salary of 70 million Indian Rupees. This elite group includes some of the biggest names in Indian cricket: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravindra Jadeja. These players are often the backbone of the Indian team, and their consistent performances have earned them a place in this top-tier category. The A+ grade players are expected to deliver match-winning performances across all formats, and their substantial earnings reflect the immense pressure and responsibility they carry.

The A grade, which also features some highly valuable players, includes Hardik Pandya, R. Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Rishabh Pant, and Axar Patel. These players receive a monthly retainer of 50 million Indian Rupees. While they may not have the same star power as those in the A+ grade, they are still vital components of the team, often contributing crucial performances in key moments. The A grade players are generally considered consistent performers who are likely to be part of the playing XI in most matches.

The B grade comprises Cheteshwar Pujara, K. L. Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Mohammed Siraj, Suryakumar Yadav, and Shubman Gill. These players are awarded a monthly salary of 30 million Indian Rupees. The B grade includes a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, many of whom have made significant contributions to the team in recent years. Players in this category are often on the cusp of becoming mainstays in the Indian team and are seen as future stars.

Finally, the C grade includes Umesh Yadav, Shikhar Dhawan, Shardul Thakur, Ishan Kishan, Deepak Hooda, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, Sanju Samson, Arshdeep Singh, and K. S. Bharat. These players earn a monthly salary of 10 million Indian Rupees. The C grade is typically reserved for players who are either on the fringes of the national team or are making their way back after a period of absence. Despite earning the lowest retainer among the four grades, these players still enjoy a significant income and have the potential to move up the ranks with consistent performances.

This structured payment system ensures that Indian cricketers are well-compensated for their efforts, with the opportunity to earn more based on their contributions and importance to the team. The BCCI's grading system also serves as a motivating factor for players to maintain their form and aim for higher grades. Furthermore, it provides a clear pathway for emerging talents to progress in their careers, offering them financial stability and recognition as they establish themselves on the international stage.

Overall, the salary details revealed by The Times of India highlight the financial rewards that come with representing India in cricket. The substantial earnings from match fees and the grading system reflect the importance of cricket in India and the value placed on the players who bring glory to the nation. As the sport continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these financial structures adapt to the changing landscape of cricket.