In a landmark move, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has become the first state body to offer identical annual retainers to both its male and female players.
- MCA is the first state board to implement equal annual retainers for men and women.
- Grade A players receive INR 12 lakh, Grade B receive INR 8 lakh, and Grade C receive INR 6 lakh.
- The initiative covers 22 players (14 men and 8 women) not centrally contracted by the BCCI.
- A new scholarship fund in honor of Ajinkya Rahane has also been established.
The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has made history by becoming the first state governing body in India to award equal annual retainers to its male and female players. This unprecedented move aims to bridge the financial gap and provide essential support to domestic cricketers who are not currently part of the BCCI central contract pool.
Contract Structure and Player Breakdown
Under this new framework, 22 players have been awarded contracts, comprising 14 male and eight female cricketers. The financial structure is identical across genders: Grade A players will earn INR 12 lakh, Grade B players INR 8 lakh, and Grade C players INR 6 lakh.
Among the men, senior figures such as batter Siddhesh Lad and spin-bowling all-rounder Shams Mulani have secured Grade A status. In the women's category, Humaira Kazi and Vrushali Bhagat have been placed in the highest bracket (Grade A). Beyond the retainers, all contracted players will also benefit from match fees, daily allowances, and performance-based incentives.
| Grade | Annual Retainer (INR) | Key Players (Examples) |
|---|---|---|
| Grade A | 12,00,000 | Siddhesh Lad, Humaira Kazi |
| Grade B | 8,00,000 | Mohit Avasthi, Sanika Chalke |
| Grade C | 6,00,000 | Sairaj Patil, Fatima Jaffer |
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this decision is a significant milestone in the global fight for gender parity in sports. By institutionalizing equal pay at the state level, the MCA is setting a precedent that forces other state associations to reconsider their compensation models. This move aligns with the broader vision set by former BCCI President Sourav Ganguly to prioritize equality within the cricketing ecosystem.
This structural shift ensures that female cricketers are treated as professional athletes of equal stature, fostering a more sustainable domestic circuit.
Historical Context and Grassroots Support
The MCA has a long history of prioritizing player welfare. In the 2024-25 season, the association had already implemented a 100% pay raise for its senior men's team. This latest move further solidifies Mumbai's position as a leader in player-centric policies.
Furthermore, following the retirement of Ajinkya Rahane earlier this year, the MCA has launched a scholarship fund in his honor. Supported by contributions from former president Sharad Pawar, this fund is designed to nurture grassroots talent, ensuring the next generation of Mumbai cricketers has the resources to succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible for these retainers?
The retainers are specifically designed for players who are not part of the BCCI's central contract system.
2. Do women players get match fees as well?
Yes, in addition to the annual retainer, women players will receive match fees, daily allowances, and performance incentives.
