In a remarkable achievement for Indian cricket, the women’s under-19 team has clinched the T20 World Cup title on February 2, 2025, under the leadership of captain Nikki Prasad. This victory comes just months after the Indian men’s team, led by Rohit Sharma, won the T20 World Cup in Barbados on June 29, 2024. In a thrilling final, the Indian women’s team showcased their dominance by defeating South Africa by 9 wickets. Despite the glory of winning the title, the team returns home without any prize money from the ICC, raising questions about the financial rewards for junior women’s teams. This article delves into the reasons behind the lack of prize money and what lies ahead for the winning team.
Why Did the Indian Team Receive No Prize Money?
The final match, held in Kuala Lumpur, witnessed the Indian women’s team securing the under-19 T20 World Cup victory for the second consecutive time since 2023. Unlike other tournaments where victorious teams receive prize money, this particular World Cup does not offer any cash awards for the winners. Despite the presence of ICC Chairman Jay Shah at the final, who presented the trophy and medals to the players, no monetary rewards were provided. This absence of prize money is not a new occurrence; when India won the same tournament two years prior, there was also no cash award. The ICC currently does not have a policy for providing monetary rewards for under-19 World Cups.
BCCI’s Support for the Winning Team
While the ICC may not provide financial incentives for under-19 teams, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has a history of rewarding their teams. The BCCI previously announced a prize of ₹5 crores for the under-19 men’s team that triumphed in the last World Cup. In 2022, after the men’s under-19 team claimed their victory, the board also rewarded them handsomely. It is expected that the BCCI will extend similar generosity to the women’s team following their recent success, as such gestures bolster players’ morale and encourage future participation in the sport.
Impact on Women’s Cricket in India
The absence of cash prizes from the ICC for junior women’s tournaments might raise concerns regarding the promotion and support for women’s cricket. However, the BCCI’s potential rewards can play a crucial role in enhancing the visibility and appeal of women’s cricket in India. Such initiatives not only recognize the hard work and dedication of young female cricketers but also inspire the next generation of players. As women’s cricket continues to gain popularity, it is essential that the governing bodies, including the ICC, take steps to provide equitable opportunities and rewards for all levels of the game.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Indian Women’s Cricket
The recent triumph at the under-19 T20 World Cup signifies a bright future for women’s cricket in India. With young talents showcasing their skills on an international platform, there is a growing demand for more support, both financially and infrastructurally. As Indian cricket transitions into a more inclusive era, the contributions of institutions like the BCCI and the visibility provided by international successes will be pivotal for the growth of women’s cricket in the nation.