Ranji Trophy Player Salaries: Salary Structure & Per Match Fees
The Ranji Trophy has long been the backbone of Indian cricket. It has nurtured generations of cricketers who have later gone on to shine on the international stage. This premier domestic tournament has been garnering a lot of attention recently due to the presence of international stars. Their participation adds to the quality and also attracts media attention, which has raised the profile of domestic cricket in India.
Despite its prestige, many fans are often surprised by the financial rewards for Ranji Trophy players. Historically, salaries in domestic cricket have been modest compared to IPL contracts. And this has often sparked discussions on how the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) can better support its domestic talent.
How much do Ranji Trophy players earn per match?
Over the years, the BCCI has revised match fees to provide better financial security to domestic players. The salary of a Ranji Trophy player largely depends on experience, number of matches played and whether the player is in the playing XI or not.
Here is the current salary structure for the 2025 season:
| Category | Playing XI (Per Day) | Reserves (Per Day) |
|---|---|---|
| 41-60 matches | INR 60,000 | INR 30,000 |
| 21-40 matches | INR 50,000 | INR 25,000 |
| 0-20 matches | INR 40,000 | INR 20,000 |
| Non-playing squad members | INR 25,000 | N/A |
From the above table, it is clear that senior players who have participated in more than 40 matches are rewarded generously. Meanwhile, new or less experienced players get lesser fees, but it can be increased with the amendments in the BCCI reforms.
BCCI’s Efforts to Improve Domestic Players’ Salaries Â
Over the years, domestic players have felt that their earnings are low, especially compared to IPL contracts. Recognizing this disparity, the BCCI has revised the Ranji Trophy salary structure over time.
- Players in the playing XI earn significantly more than the reserve members. This is all based on strong performance and commitment.
- Non-playing team members still earn a daily fee to maintain financial stability while training and supporting the team.
- The board is looking at ways to bridge the gap between domestic cricket and IPL earnings by giving more income to domestic players.
Potential Future Earnings for Domestic Players Â
Reports suggest that the BCCI is considering proposals to double the match fees for Ranji Trophy players. This will see the players earn Rs. 75 lakh to Rs. 1 crore annually for a full season. Currently, senior players can earn around Rs. 25 lakh if ​​their team reaches the final, while other team members can earn Rs. 17-22 lakh in a season.
This increase provides financial stability and helps players to fully commit to domestic cricket. This way, they will not feel financially inferior compared to players participating in bigger leagues.
Historical Context: How Ranji Trophy Salaries Have Evolved Â
Former cricket opener Aakash Chopra recently reflected on the salary hike in domestic cricket. In 1997, Chopra recalled that he used to earn just Rs 1,700 for a Ranji Trophy match. Over time, the salary gradually increased to Rs 10,000 per day, then Rs 1-1.5 lakh per match. This shows how the success of cricket and the IPL has led to the BCCI’s increasing revenue.
Chopra explained that players who used to play 8-10 matches a year used to earn Rs 10-15 lakh, and today, the earnings are even higher. The gradual increase in salaries has helped retain talent in domestic cricket. Meanwhile, it also helps motivate young players to work hard and aim for the national selection.
Why Match Fees Matter Â
IPL contracts are very popular, but Ranji Trophy match fees are the main source of income for many domestic players. Regular match fees:
- Provide financial security for players who do not participate in the IPL.
- Promote continued participation and performance in domestic cricket.
- Enable players to focus on long-term career goals such as national selection without worrying about income.
Challenges for Domestic Players Â
Despite the improvements, there are challenges:
- Income inequality: The gap between IPL earnings and Ranji Trophy salaries is still significant.
- Job security: Players who are not in the starting XI earn less, which creates pressure to perform consistently.
- Sponsorship and endorsement: Limited visibility means that domestic players often rely on match fees.
The fee hike proposed by the BCCI aims to address these issues. In short, it is to provide domestic players with a more sustainable and respectable income.
Conclusion Â
The BCCI is actively trying to bridge the earnings gap between domestic cricket and IPL contracts. By offering higher fees and bonuses, the board is ensuring that players can earn enough by participating in the Ranji Trophy alone. This way, they will not have to worry about relying solely on the glamour of the T20 league.
This approach improves financial stability and strengthens Indian cricket from the grassroots level.
FAQs Â
Q1. How much do senior Ranji Trophy players earn per match?
Senior players who have played more than 40 matches earn Rs 60,000 per day if they are in the playing XI. Reserve players with similar experience earn Rs 30,000 per day.
Q2. What about new or less experienced players?
Players with 0-20 match experience earn Rs 40,000 per day in the playing XI and Rs 20,000 as reserves. Non-playing team members still get Rs 25,000 per day.
Q3. How does the BCCI plan to further improve salaries?
The BCCI is considering doubling the match fee, which will allow domestic players to earn from Rs 75 lakh to Rs 1 crore. The move is aimed at bridging the financial gap between IPL stars and domestic cricketers.
Q4. How has Ranji Trophy salaries changed over time?
In the 1990s, players earned just Rs 1,700 per match. Over the years, the fees gradually increased to Rs 10,000 per day, then to Rs 1-1.5 lakh per match.
Q5. Why is the Ranji Trophy important despite the IPL salaries?
The Ranji Trophy remains important because it develops talent for the national selection. It provides consistent match practice, and provides financial security to players who are not in the IPL.
