By BCCI Introduces Fast Bowling Contracts to Enhance Pace Resources
In a recent development, the BCCI unveiled Central Contracts last month, featuring a novel addition: fast bowling contracts for five players. Akash Deep, Vijaykumar Umran Malik, Yash Dayal, and Vidwath Kaverappa were selected for these contracts by the national selection committee, as announced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in its February 28 release. While specific details were not provided, subsequent inquiries have shed light on the benefits these contracts entail.
Players holding fast bowling contracts will enjoy unrestricted access to the National Cricket Academy (NCA), a privilege usually reserved for centrally contracted players. This means they can train, undergo rehabilitation, and use other facilities at the academy at no cost, with insurance taken care of by the NCA. Unlike non-contracted players, who must be recommended by their state associations and have expenses covered by them to use NCA facilities, these bowlers can directly access the NCA.
The primary aim behind introducing these contracts is to build a strong pool of fast bowlers for the national team. With the increasing volume of cricket and the frequency of injuries, there is a need to have a group of players ready to step in for the national team at any time.
While the financial benefits of these contracts have not been officially announced, it is speculated that the retainership for these players could be similar to that of players in the C Grade, which is Rs 1 crore as per last year’s contracts. Bharat Arun, former India bowling coach, hailed the move, emphasizing the access these bowlers will have to top-notch facilities and expertise at the NCA, which may not be as comprehensive in their respective states. He sees this as an excellent and much-needed decision to enhance the development of fast bowlers in India.
