Mumbai Cricket Association has become the first state body in India

  • ¨  Mumbai Cricket Association has become the first state body in India to introduce a structured annual contract system for its domestic cricketers.
  •      The initiative, effective from the 2026–27 season, aims to provide financial stability and professional support to players who are not part of the Indian national team or the Indian Premier League.

Graded Contracts to Ensure Financial Security

  • ¨   Under the new system, players will be divided into three categories—Grade A, Grade B and Grade C. The remuneration varies across categories, with Grade A players earning between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 lakh annually.
  •      Grade B players will receive ₹8 lakh to ₹12 lakh, while Grade C players will be paid ₹8 lakh per year.
  •    This structured payment model mirrors the central contract system used by the Board of Control for Cricket in India, bringing similar benefits to the domestic level.

Eligibility Criteria for Selection

  • ¨  The association has laid down strict eligibility norms for players to qualify for these contracts. Players must be registered with the association and meet prescribed fitness standards.
  •      They should not have represented India in the past two seasons or been part of any IPL team during that period. Additionally, selection committee recommendations are mandatory, ensuring that only deserving and consistent performers are included.