Impact of IPL 2024 on Ranji Trophy Participation

An investigation by the Indian Express highlights a growing imbalance between the Indian Premier League and domestic red-ball cricket. Out of 165 Indian players who featured in IPL 2024, more than 56 did not play a single Ranji Trophy match this season. In addition, 25 others played only one game, meaning nearly half of the Indian cricketers in IPL 2024 appeared in one or no Ranji Trophy fixtures.

This trend underlines a clear shift in priorities towards the lucrative and high-visibility T20 format. Many players are believed to be skipping four-day matches to stay injury-free and extend their white-ball careers. While this approach may benefit short-term performance and earnings, it raises concerns about the long-term health of India’s red-ball ecosystem, player development pathways, and the overall competitiveness of domestic first-class cricket.

Balancing IPL commitments with consistent Ranji Trophy participation remains crucial for sustaining a strong pipeline of technically sound, multi-format cricketers.

Test Cricket Incentive Scheme for Young Players

The Test cricket incentive scheme is designed to ensure that young cricketers maintain their focus on red-ball cricket and continue to value the longest format of the game. Introduced by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, this initiative rewards consistent participation in Test matches over the course of a season.

Under this scheme, players who feature in more than 50% of the Test matches in a season, assuming a total of nine Tests, become eligible for significant financial incentives. Those who are part of the playing XI in these matches will receive Rs 30 lakh per Test as a playing XI incentive, reinforcing the importance of regular selection and performance.

In addition, players who are included in the squad but do not make the playing XI will receive a non-playing XI incentive of Rs 15 lakh per Test, provided they still cross the 50% participation threshold across the season. This structure recognises the contribution and commitment of squad members who remain ready to step in whenever required.

Cricketers who appear in fewer than 50% of the Tests in a season will not receive any incentive under this scheme. The clear eligibility criteria are intended to motivate players to prioritise Test cricket, enhance their red-ball skills, and contribute to the long-term strength and prestige of the format.

By offering substantial rewards for sustained involvement in Test cricket, the incentive scheme aims to balance the growing appeal of limited-overs formats with a renewed emphasis on the traditional, five-day game. This approach supports the development of well-rounded cricketers and helps preserve the legacy and competitive standard of Test cricket.

In the meantime, players who appear in more than 75% of Test matches—effectively at least 7 out of 9 Tests—will receive Rs 45 lakh per match as a Playing XI incentive, and Rs 22.5 lakh per match as a non‑playing squad member incentive. This structure is designed to reward consistent selection, sustained fitness, and long‑term commitment across an entire Test cycle, rather than isolated performances in a few games. It also recognises the contribution of squad members who may not take the field in every match but remain fully engaged in preparation, strategy, and match readiness, helping the entire group maintain a high standard of professionalism and competitiveness throughout the series.