Jay Shah, Secretary of the Indian Cricket Board, shared his excitement on Twitter, declaring a big stride forwards, in a game-changing move towards gender balance and diversity in cricket. This declaration occurred after the Cricket Governing Body proclaimed equal prize money for men's and women's teams at major tournaments, exceeding the deadline for prize money parity.
The historic decision was reached during the Cricket Governing Body Annual Conference in Durban, South Africa, marking a milestone in the sport's history. Teams will now earn the same amount for finishing in similar positions in Men and Women's tournaments as well as for winning matches.
The prize money at all @ICC events will be the same for men and women: Jay Shah
Jay Shah stated, "I am thrilled to announce that a significant stride has been taken towards gender parity and inclusivity. The prize money at all @ICC events will be the same for men and women. Together we grow."
"The BCCI would like to express its gratitude and appreciation to the ICC for approving the revamped revenue-distribution model during the ICC’s AGM in Durban. I am certain under Secretary Jay Shah, Indian cricket will continue to fulfil its role of leading by example with pathbreaking initiatives and going from strength to strength, both on and off the field."
In a Cricket Governing Body statement, "The International Cricket Council (ICC) today announced equal prize money for men's and women's teams at ICC events. The decision was taken at the ICC Annual Conference in Durban, South Africa and ensures the ICC Board fulfilled its commitment to reaching prize money equity by 2030 well ahead of schedule."
"Teams will now receive equal prize money for the equivalent finishing position at comparable events as well as the same amount for winning a match at those events," it further stated.
The Indian Cricket Board secretary, Jay Shah, took an active role in developing the policy as the head of the Financial & Commercial Affairs Committee (F&CA), having done so on his own board last year. The board's entire strategy, which includes equal pay for Indian cricketers, has gained overwhelming approval from both players and spectators.