The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly considering an increase in Test match fees amidst concerns over players prioritizing the Indian Premier League (IPL) over red-ball cricket.
The board's decision to review the salary structure comes in light of Ishan Kishan's prolonged absence from domestic cricket. Despite calls from team management to participate in domestic matches, the wicketkeeper-batsman was seen practicing for the IPL in Baroda instead.
According to a report in The Indian Express, the BCCI is contemplating offering an additional bonus to players who participate in every Test series throughout a season. This move aims to incentivize players to focus more on red-ball cricket and ensure their availability for Test matches.
"If someone plays all Test series in a calendar year, he should be rewarded additionally, apart from the annual retainer contract. This is to ensure that players turn out for more red-ball cricket. This would be an additional perk for playing Test cricket," a source explained.
If approved, the revised remuneration model is expected to be implemented after the conclusion of the ongoing IPL season.
Previously, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had cautioned centrally-contracted and India 'A' cricketers against skipping domestic cricket in favor of the IPL, warning of serious consequences for such actions.
Reports suggest that Ishan, who holds a Grade C contract, may face exclusion from the BCCI central contract due to his absence from the Ranji Trophy matches.
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