Former captain and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) chief Tamim Iqbal expressed satisfaction with the decision to raise domestic match fees and salaries for male and female cricketers, addressing long-standing underpayment issues. This move, initiated by the Tamim-led ad hoc committee, is seen as a positive step towards improving financial recognition for players in Bangladesh’s domestic cricket scene, particularly benefiting women cricketers in the league.
Tamim acknowledged the salary adjustments as a step in the right direction, emphasizing the necessity for progress within the constraints of feasible increments. Notably, he highlighted the stark disparity in earnings, revealing that women cricketers previously received as little as BDT 1,000 per match in domestic one-day competitions, a figure that has seen marginal increases over the years.
Under the new salary structure introduced by the BCB, women cricketers will now receive higher match fees across various formats, with payments set at BDT 10,000 for T20 matches, BDT 15,000 for 50-over games, and BDT 20,000 for first-class fixtures. Additionally, the top 36 women cricketers will witness a raise in their monthly retainers from BDT 30,000 to BDT 40,000, indicating a broader effort to enhance financial stability in the cricketing system.
The salary adjustments extend beyond women’s cricket to benefit male domestic players as well. Category A players will now earn BDT 65,000 per month, while those in categories B and C will receive BDT 50,000 and BDT 40,000, respectively. Moreover, first-class match fees have been increased from BDT 75,000 to BDT 100,000, reflecting a comprehensive overhaul aimed at addressing long-standing stagnation in player earnings.
Tamim stressed the importance of these revisions, underscoring the need to rectify years of minimal growth in player incomes. He emphasized the significant contributions of hardworking players to the sport, asserting that fair compensation is essential to recognize their dedication. The revised salary structure for both male and female cricketers is slated to take effect on January 1, 2026.
In addition to the salary adjustments, the cricket board has outlined the responsibilities of the 11-member ad hoc committee, with a primary focus on resolving disputes between clubs and the board. Efforts are concentrated on facilitating the resumption of the Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League in the near future.
