England Cricket Board equalizes match fees for men and women

London: The England Cricket Board (ECB) on Wednesday announced the equalization of fees per match for women and men cricketers. England is the fourth country after India, South Africa and New Zealand to move towards historic parity in international cricket. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has already announced equal prize money for men’s and women’s teams in ICC events. England women’s cricket team captain Heather Knight termed the news as ‘fantastic’ and said it would make cricket an attractive sport for girls and young women.

“It is vitally important that we continue to grow the women’s game. It’s great to see equal match fees for England women and England men. “The direction of travel has always been the most important thing for the women’s game. Our goal has been to create a sustainable product that people want to watch and play. I am sure the decision of uniform match fee will make cricket an attractive sport for girls and young women. ECB Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Richard Gould said that this development is the result of increased investment in women’s cricket by England.

“This summer’s thrilling Women’s Ashes series showed how women’s cricket is growing rapidly in this country with record stadium and TV attendances. “Growing women’s and girls’ sports is a major priority for us,” Gould said. In recent years, we have significantly increased investment in building an in-house women’s infrastructure to groom the sportspersons of the future and enhance the rewards for sportspersons. The hike in match fees will be effective from England’s next international match against Sri Lanka on Thursday.