ABP Live Sports
abplive|17-07-2025
When cricketing greats like Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag retire, their immense contributions to Indian cricket are not forgotten.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) offers a structured pension scheme for retired cricketers as a gesture of gratitude and support. This pension system was revised in June 2022, with significant increases across all categories.
Former First-Class cricketers: Pension increased from ₹15,000 to ₹30,000/month
Former Test cricketers (Lower Tier): Hiked from ₹37,500 to ₹60,000/month
Former Test cricketers (Upper Tier): Raised from ₹50,000 to ₹70,000/month
This structure is based on the number of matches played, years of service, and whether the player has represented India in Test matches.
With a staggering 200 Tests and 463 ODIs to his name, Tendulkar is one of the most decorated cricketers in history. He qualifies for the top-tier pension bracket, receiving ₹70,000/month from BCCI under the revised scheme.
Sehwag, who represented India in 104 Tests and over 250 ODIs, also falls into the upper-tier category. Like Tendulkar, he draws a monthly pension of ₹70,000 from the BCCI.
Yuvraj Singh, with a slightly shorter Test career, qualifies for the lower Test category and receives ₹60,000/month
Vinod Kambli, who played more in the domestic circuit, gets ₹30,000/month, in line with the first-class category
The BCCI’s revised pension scheme is currently benefiting around 900 retired cricketers and umpires. Nearly 75% of them saw a 100% increase in their pensions after the 2022 revision.
Although modern players earn millions through contracts and endorsements, for earlier-era players, this pension is a valuable form of recognition and financial support.
It not only honors their service but also ensures dignity in their post-retirement life. It not only honors their service but also ensures dignity in their post-retirement life.