During the International Cricket Council (ICC) board meeting held on Thursday, a revenue distribution model was unanimously approved, further solidifying the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) position as the unrivaled financial powerhouse of world cricket.
While the exact revenue figures were not disclosed in the ICC media release, it is anticipated that the BCCI will earn an annual amount of USD 230 million from the total pool of USD 600 million over the next four years. This substantial share represents approximately 38.4 percent, which is about six times higher than the allocation for the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and significantly surpasses Cricket Australia’s (CA) share.
Under this distribution model, the BCCI’s overwhelming share places them in a distant first position on the list of revenue recipients, solidifying their dominant financial position in the cricketing world.
The revenue distribution model aims to ensure a fair allocation of funds, taking into account the contributions made by different cricket boards to the global game. However, the significant disparity in the allocations has raised eyebrows, with the BCCI’s share dwarfing that of other cricketing nations. The ECB is expected to receive around USD 41 million (6.89 percent), while Cricket Australia is set to receive approximately USD 37.53 million (6.25 percent).
In addition to the revenue distribution model, the ICC has implemented a restriction on the number of overseas players allowed to participate in new T20 leagues. The new regulation limits the maximum number of overseas cricketers to four per playing XI, specifically targeting the proliferation of T20 leagues worldwide, which pose a potential threat to the international version of the game.
Alongside the distribution plan, the ICC Board has also approved the largest investment ever made in cricket. A strategic investment fund, dedicated to supporting global expansion efforts in line with the ICC Global Expansion Strategy, will be provided to every ICC member, as outlined in the press release.
ICC Chairman Greg Barclay shed light on the distribution model, stating, “All members will receive a base distribution, and then additional revenue will be directed in relation to their contribution to the global game, both on and off the field.” This indicates that the distribution takes into account a member’s overall impact on cricket, recognizing efforts made in terms of player development, infrastructure, and growth initiatives.
The approved revenue distribution model and strategic investment fund represent the ICC’s commitment to fostering the growth and development of cricket across the globe. While the dominance of the BCCI in financial matters raises questions about equity and fair distribution, it also highlights the board’s influence and contribution to the sport on a global scale.
As cricket continues to evolve, it is essential for the ICC and its member boards to strike a balance between financial stability, competitiveness, and the overall health of the game to ensure its enduring popularity and success on both nat
