Harmanpreet Kaur Hopes Women’s Cricket Contracts to Get Boost After World Cup Victory
India captain says market value of women cricketers is rising post ODI World Cup win and anticipates closer parity with men’s contracts.
New Delhi, Nov 15: India women’s cricket captain Harmanpreet Kaur has expressed optimism that the BCCI’s central contracts for women players will see a significant increase following India’s historic ODI World Cup victory earlier this month. While match fees were equalized with men’s cricket in 2022, the value of central contracts for women still lags far behind the men, with top-tier male players earning Rs 7 crore annually compared to Rs 50 lakh for women.
“The value of women’s central contracts will change now,” Harmanpreet said during an exclusive interview at PTI headquarters. “After winning this trophy, I am sure there will be a lot of improvements, financially also.” She recalled the growth of women’s cricket over the years, noting that the central contract amount increased from Rs 15 lakh in 2017 to Rs 50 lakh after India reached the World Cup final that year.
Acknowledging that the majority of cricket revenue in India has historically come from men’s cricket, Harmanpreet said the recent triumph has already boosted the market value of women’s cricket. “Post November 2, the market value of women’s cricket has gone up because of the trophy. Winning this makes people start giving us the same value as men,” she added.
Looking ahead, Harmanpreet emphasized that continued success in ICC events is key to achieving pay parity. “If we want to change, we have to win trophies for the country, just like the men. Then people will automatically start valuing us equally,” she said.
Harmanpreet also highlighted the growing depth in the Indian squad. “We have a team of talented fast bowlers and spinners. Young players like Kranti Goud and Shree Charani delivered when needed. India is developing a huge pool of players who will showcase their talent in time,” she added.
The India skipper credited BCCI Secretary Jay Shah with supporting women’s cricket through pay parity initiatives and the introduction of the Women’s Premier League. “Jay Shah has been the biggest strength for our team. He supported us even before we had won an ICC trophy,” she said.
With the 2026 T20 World Cup in the UK on the horizon, Harmanpreet said the team is focused on maintaining momentum. “Winning the World Cup at home was a dream, but it’s not over yet. Another trophy awaits, and we are working toward the next goal,” she said.
