The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced a substantial increase in match fees for domestic cricketers, a move aimed at improving the financial security of players across men’s and women’s competitions. BCB president Tamim Iqbal confirmed the decision following a working committee meeting at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur.

The announcement comes at an important time for Bangladesh’s domestic players, particularly after the postponement of the upcoming Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). With the country’s only franchise-based T20 tournament not taking place this year, concerns had grown among players over the potential financial impact.

Under the revised structure, men’s first-class match fees have been increased from Tk 70,000 to Tk 1.5 lakh per match. The List A match fee has doubled from Tk 50,000 to Tk 1 lakh, while domestic T20 players will now earn Tk 80,000 per game, compared to the previous Tk 40,000.

Women cricketers have also received a significant boost. The match fee for women’s four-day cricket has doubled from Tk 20,000 to Tk 40,000. One-day match fees have increased from Tk 15,000 to Tk 30,000, while T20 fees have risen from Tk 10,000 to Tk 20,000.

Tamim explained that the decision was designed as a long-term solution rather than temporary financial assistance. He pointed out that while the BPL involves around 50 to 70 local players, domestic cricket provides opportunities for approximately 150 to 200 cricketers across first-class, List A and T20 competitions.

According to Tamim, a domestic player completing a full season, including salary and match fees, could potentially earn between Tk 35 lakh and Tk 40 lakh annually. This would translate to an average monthly income of more than Tk 3 lakh, providing greater financial stability for players and their families.

However, the increased financial support will also come with higher expectations. Tamim stressed that professionalism and fitness standards would be monitored strictly, particularly in first-class cricket. Players who fail mandatory pre-season fitness tests will not receive special consideration.

The BCB is also reportedly exploring a new commercial structure for several domestic tournaments, including the Bangladesh Cricket League four-day and one-day competitions and the National Cricket League T20.

The match-fee increase marks a major step towards strengthening Bangladesh’s domestic cricket ecosystem while ensuring that players receive better financial rewards for their performances.