DUBAI: The International Cricket Council’s (ICC) proposed new international revenue distribution model for the 2024-27 cycle has sparked concerns about the growth of the game and the added pressure it could place on financially struggling countries.
The proposed model, set to be voted on at the ICC’s July board meeting in Durban, would allocate a significant share of revenues to powerhouse cricketing nations, leaving associate members and less developed countries at a disadvantage.
According to ESPNcricinfo, if approved, the model would allocate 38.5% of revenue to India, with England and Australia receiving 6.89% and 6.25% respectively. Pakistan is expected to earn 5.75% through the ICC’s projected earnings primarily driven by a $3 billion media rights deal for 2024-27. The 12 full members of the ICC would collectively receive 88.81% of the revenue, leaving the remaining share for the 94 associate members.
Representatives from associate member countries have expressed disappointment and raised concerns about the potential inadequacy of the proposed model. Sumod Damodar, an associate member representative on the ICC Chief Executives’ Committee, highlighted practical reasons why the model would be insufficient for associate members, while Vanuatu Cricket Association Chief Executive Tim Cutler warned that the imbalance created by the new model could jeopardize the future growth of the game.
Ehsan Mani Criticizes ICC’s Revenue Distribution Model
Former chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Ehsan Mani, also criticized the proposed revenue distribution model, emphasizing the need for financial parity among the ICC’s full members and advocating for a fair allocation of resources to support the development of cricket globally. Mani expressed concerns that the model would allocate the most significant share to India, which, in his view, does not align with the game’s overall growth objectives.
The proposed revenue distribution model has raised important questions about equity and the long-term sustainability of cricket worldwide. Critics argue that a more balanced approach to allocating funds is necessary to ensure the game’s growth beyond its current boundaries. As the July board meeting approaches, stakeholders will closely monitor the discussions to determine the future direction of cricket’s financial landscape.
