Women’s players at the domestic and international levels will now receive the same match money as men across all forms and competitions according to a five-year agreement between NZC and the players association. Professional female athletes will also get equity under the terms of the agreement, which will take effect on August 1, in areas including travel, accommodation, and the overall playing and training environment.
“This is the most important agreement in our sport,” said NZC Chief Executive David White. “It ties NZC, the main associations, and our players together at the hip and lays the groundwork for funding, growing, and developing cricket.”
The number of domestic contracts for women would rise from 54 to 72 under the deal, while men will receive larger retainers as a result of their increased participation in matches, formats, and training and playing time. Sophie Devine said that it’s great for International and domestic women players to be recogonized in the same agreement, alongside the men.
The match fees for New Zealand’s men’s players at the T20I, ODI, Ford Trophy, and Dream11 Super Smash levels will be the same as for the women, but they will receive greater retainers because they play in more matches, compete in more formats, and spend more time practice and playing. They will continue to be able to compete in international leagues, like the IPL.
Tests are worth $10,250, ODIs are $4,500, T20Is are 2,500, Plunket Shield is $1,750, Ford Trophy/Hallyburton Johnstone Shield is $800, and Super Smash is $575.
In contrast, there is a significant pay discrepancy between male and female cricketers in India. While female cricketers only receive Rs. 50 lakh, male cricketers with Category A+ contracts are paid Rs. 7 crore.
New Zealand captain Kane Williamson also said that it is important for current players to follow the legacy who have gone before us and to support tomorrow’s players for both men and women.
