Sunil Gavaskar has called upon state associations to enhance the match fees awarded to players participating in domestic cricket. He emphasized the necessity for a salary increase for those competing in the Ranji Trophy. The esteemed former Indian batsman articulated this perspective in a column, highlighting the growing trend among parents who view cricket as a viable career path for their children.

"The match fees for the Ranji Trophy should be reconsidered for an increase in the upcoming season, as there exists a significant disparity between the earnings of an ordinary uncapped player fortunate enough to participate in the IPL and those of a dedicated Ranji Trophy player," Gavaskar noted in his column for Sportstar.

"If other state teams could emulate the Mumbai Cricket Association by providing fees that are comparable to those offered by the BCCI, players would receive a remuneration that accurately reflects the number of days they compete."

Gavaskar further suggested that state associations ought to utilize the substantial subsidies they receive annually from the Board of Control for Cricket in India effectively. "Each State Association benefits from a considerable annual subsidy from the BCCI, yet much of it remains idle in bank accounts rather than being invested in infrastructure and the development of the sport, which is the intended purpose of these funds. Therefore, states are capable of matching the fees provided by the BCCI for their Ranji Trophy teams. The positive development is that an increasing number of administrators who are passionate about the game are emerging, recognizing the importance of promoting and supporting their teams," Gavaskar concluded.

Healthy structures, more trophies

The former captain of India emphasized that a robust state cricket framework contributes to the overall improvement of the domestic circuit's upper echelons. This enhancement is likely to result in India securing additional titles, such as the Champions Trophy they claimed on Sunday. "It is my hope that this will encourage talented players to remain in the sport rather than pursuing alternative careers, thereby fortifying state cricket and, consequently, Indian cricket as a whole, enabling it to achieve further victories like those accomplished by Rohit and his team," remarked Gavaskar.

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