The Men in Blue have reinvigorated the spirit of Indian cricket by clinching the T20 World Cup 2024, held across the USA and the West Indies. Under the able leadership of Rohit Sharma, the Indian cricket team defied the odds, coming back from a seemingly lost position to secure a dramatic seven-run victory over South Africa in the finals on June 29. This win has ended India’s prolonged wait for an ICC trophy and triggered nationwide celebrations reminiscent of cricket’s golden years.
The victorious squad received a warm and grand welcome upon their return from the Caribbean, with the entire nation rejoicing in their accomplishment. Not only did they bring home the prestigious T20 World Cup trophy, but the team also earned a prize of Rs 20.42 crore from the International Cricket Council (ICC) for their spectacular performance.
In an equally jubilant gesture, The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided to laud the entire team with a mammoth Rs 125 crore reward. Jay Shah, the BCCI secretary, formally announced this substantial reward, reflecting both the magnitude of their achievement and the affection of the cricket-obsessed nation.
A recent report by the Indian Express has detailed the distribution of the Rs 125 crore reward amongst the members of the World Cup-winning squad. According to the report, each of the 15 squad members will receive an individual reward of Rs 5 crore. This includes players like Yuzvendra Chahal, Sanju Samson, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who, despite not playing a single match in the tournament, will be equally remunerated for their invaluable presence and support throughout the campaign.
The coaching staff, heralded for their role in crafting this historic win, will also be handsomely rewarded. Head coach Rahul Dravid, along with batting coach Vikram Rathour, fielding coach T Dilip, and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, will each receive Rs 2.5 crore. Their strategic intelligence and unwavering dedication were instrumental in orchestrating India’s triumphant journey.
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Further acknowledging the pivotal role played by the selectors, the report highlights that the five selectors, including chief selector Ajit Agarkar and zonal selectors Shiv Sundar Das, Subroto Banerjee, Salil Ankola, and Sridharan Sharath, will receive Rs 1 crore each. Their meticulous selection processes and expert insights proved vital in assembling a formidable and balanced squad.
The BCCI’s reward distribution extends beyond just the main squad and coaching staff. The four reserve players – Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, and Avesh Khan – who were crucial as backup options, will also be awarded Rs 1 crore each. Their readiness to step in at any crucial juncture was a significant factor in the team’s overall preparedness.
Ensuring that every contributor to the campaign is recognized, the backroom staff will also share in the reward. This includes the physiotherapists, throwdown specialists, masseurs, as well as the strength and conditioning coach, each of whom will receive Rs 2 crore. Their behind-the-scenes work kept the players in peak physical condition, which was essential for their performance on the world stage.
Additionally, the team’s video analyst, logistics manager, and media officers – vital cogs in the wheel ensuring smooth operations throughout the tournament – will also be beneficiaries of this grand reward.
India’s T20 World Cup win in 2024 marks a significant chapter in the nation’s cricket history, ending a drought of global titles since the 2013 Champions Trophy victory under MS Dhoni. The journey to this year’s triumph was symbolized by determination, skill, and a collective team effort, echoing the scenes of India’s 2011 World Cup and 2007 T20 World Cup victories.
The Rs 125 crore reward from the BCCI is not just about monetary recognition; it symbolizes the immense pride and unwavering support of millions of fans across the nation. It stands as a testament to the sheer hard work and dedication exhibited by every member of the Indian team, both on and off the field. With such comprehensive recognition, the BCCI aims to motivate the team and set a new benchmark for excellence in Indian cricket, fostering hopes of many more such triumphant campaigns in the years to come.
