'These contracts will give players financial independence...': Mumbai players express happiness over MCA’s contract system

Shams Mulani. File pic; (right) Hardik Tamore. Pic/Satej Shinde

Mumbai's cricketers have welcomed the Mumbai Cricket Association's move to award annual contracts to players. On Thursday, the MCA announced that for the 2026-27 season they will issue contracts to all its players, except those who have represented India ‘A' and are part of the IPL.

The contracts will be awarded based on performances over the last two seasons, fitness benchmarks, and recommendations of the selection committee. The MCA's Apex Council has passed a proposal, under which players will be categorised into three grades. Grade A players will receive Rs 12,00,000 to Rs 20,00,000 per annum, Grade B players will earn Rs 8,00,000 to R1s 2,00,000 per annum, and Grade C players will get R8,00,000 per annum.

"This will definitely benefit players because everyone needs financial assistance. Being on the contracted list will also motivate them more as they will feel financially secure. In today's world, financial security is very important. This initiative is just remarkable," Mumbai's spin-bowling all-rounder Shams Mulani told mid-day on Thursday.

Mulani's Mumbai Ranji Trophy teammate, wicketkeeper-batsman Hardik Tamore, reckoned this initiative will help cricketers, as many don't have jobs. "This is a wonderful initiative by MCA because many of us cricketers don't have jobs. These contracts will give players financial independence which will allow them to focus more on their cricket and play freely," Tamore told mid-day.