BCB’s Game-Changing Move: 30 More Women Cricketers Get National Contracts
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has taken a groundbreaking step to promote women’s cricket by introducing national contracts for 30 additional female cricketers. This move, effective from November 2024 to June 2025, provides a significant boost to Bangladesh’s women’s cricket, ensuring financial stability for a larger pool of players.
This decision is in addition to the 18 centrally-contracted women cricketers, who will also see a pay hike across all grades. The initiative is designed to grow the pool of talent in women’s cricket and prepare Bangladesh for future international challenges.
What’s New in the BCB Women’s National Contracts?
The newly introduced system is modeled after the men’s first-class contracts and focuses on nurturing uncapped and less-experienced cricketers. Here’s what the initiative includes:
1. Financial Stability for 30 Additional Players
- Aimed at supporting players who are uncapped or haven’t represented Bangladesh recently.
- Contract period: November 2024 – June 2025.
2. Pay Hike for Centrally-Contracted Players
The 18 centrally-contracted cricketers will receive an increase in their monthly salaries, ensuring better financial incentives for their efforts:
- Grade A: BDT 120,000 (Approx. $1,000) – Previously BDT 100,000
- Grade B: BDT 100,000 (Approx. $850) – Previously BDT 80,000
- Grade C: BDT 70,000 (Approx. $600) – Previously BDT 60,000
- Grade D: BDT 60,000 (Approx. $500) – Previously BDT 50,000
3. Performance Bonuses Introduced
To motivate better performances, the BCB introduced match-winning bonuses:
- ODI Wins: BDT 100,000 (Approx. $850) for defeating ICC Top-3 teams.
- T20I Wins: BDT 50,000 (Approx. $420) for the same.
- Bonuses for victories against teams ranked 4th to 9th are also included in a tiered system.
Current Grades for Centrally-Contracted Players
Grade A (BDT 120,000):
- Nigar Sultana Joty
- Fargana Haque
- Ritu Moni
- Nahida Akter
Grade B (BDT 100,000):
- Fahima Khatun
- Shamima Sultana
- Sharmin Akhter
- Murshida Khatun
- Marufa Akter
- Rabeya Khan
Grade C (BDT 70,000):
- Sobhana Mostary
- Lata Mondal
- Jahanara Alam
- Shorna Akter
Grade D (BDT 60,000):
- Disha Biswas
- Sultana Khatun
- Dilara Akter
- Shathi Rani
The Impact of the New Contracts on Bangladesh Women’s Cricket
This decision is a milestone in Bangladesh cricket and reflects the board’s commitment to promoting women’s sports.
1. Financial Empowerment for Female Cricketers
For decades, women cricketers in Bangladesh faced financial struggles due to the lack of proper contracts. This move ensures a steady income for both experienced players and newcomers, making cricket a viable career option.
2. Development of Grassroots Talent
Expanding the contract pool to 30 additional players means young, uncapped talents will get opportunities to train, compete, and develop without worrying about financial constraints.
3. Preparation for International Competitions
With the Women’s 50-Over World Cup and T20 Championships on the horizon, a larger pool of contracted players ensures depth and competition for spots in the national squad.
Why the Pay Hike Matters
The pay raise for centrally-contracted players will significantly impact their professional and personal lives:
- Motivation to Perform: Players in higher grades like Nigar Sultana and Nahida Akter can now focus entirely on cricket without financial distractions.
- Attracting New Talent: Competitive salaries encourage young athletes to pursue cricket professionally.
Performance Bonuses: A Step Toward Equality
The introduction of performance-based bonuses reflects the BCB’s aim to bring women’s cricket on par with the men’s team:
- Boosting Competitiveness: Teams now have an added incentive to perform well, especially against top-ranked sides.
- Recognizing Achievements: Players and teams will be rewarded for every win, adding to their motivation to improve and deliver on the big stage.
Bangladesh Women’s Contracted Cricketers (2024-25)
Newly Contracted Players:
- Salma Khatun
- Rumana Ahmed
- Ishma Tanjim
- Fariha Trisna
- Sumaiya Akter
- Sharmin Sultana
- Rubya Haider
- Farzana Akter
- Suraya Azmim
- Puja Chakroborty
- Nishita Akter Nishi
- Shampa Biswas
- Jannatul Ferdus Sumona
- Sabikun Nahar Jesmin
- Sanjida Akter Meghla
- Fatema Jahara
- Reya Akter Shika
- Misty Shaha
- Jannatul Ferdous Tithi
- Ayesha Akter (Jr.)
- Fuara Begum
- Mosammat Eva
- Sumaiya Akter Shuborna
- Jannatul Maoua
- Dipa Khatun
- Afia Ashima Era
- Unnoti Akter
- Taj Nehar
- Shorifa Khatun
FAQs About BCB Women’s National Contracts
Q: What is the purpose of the new national contracts for women cricketers?
A: The BCB aims to provide financial stability to a larger pool of female cricketers while developing grassroots talent for international success.
Q: How much will Grade A players earn in the new contract system?
A: Grade A players will earn BDT 120,000 ($1,000 approx.) per month.
Q: What bonuses are included for performance?
A: Match-winning bonuses of BDT 100,000 ($850) for ODIs and BDT 50,000 ($420) for T20Is have been introduced for wins against ICC Top-3 teams.
Q: Who are the newly contracted players?
A: Thirty players, including Salma Khatun, Rumana Ahmed, and Puja Chakroborty, have been given national contracts.
Q: When will these contracts be effective?
A: The contracts are valid from November 2024 to June 2025.
A Bold Step for Women’s Cricket
The BCB’s decision to expand contracts and introduce performance bonuses is a monumental step forward. It not only strengthens women’s cricket in Bangladesh but also ensures the financial well-being of players. As this initiative unfolds, the future of Bangladesh’s women cricketers looks brighter than ever.
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