Ravi Shastri Advocates for Increased Revenue Share for India in ICC
Ravi Shastri, the former Indian cricketer and coach, is advocating for India to receive a larger share of the ICC's total revenue. He emphasizes India's significant contribution to the ICC's finances and argues that the revenue generated from television rights during overseas matches justifies this demand. Shastri's insights shed light on the economic dynamics of cricket revenue distribution, particularly in relation to India's unique position among cricketing nations. This article explores his views and the implications for India's cricketing future.
| Jun 27, 2025, 13:15 IST
Ravi Shastri's Call for a Larger Share of ICC Revenue
Former Indian cricketer and head coach Ravi Shastri believes that India deserves a larger portion of the total revenue generated by the ICC. He argues that India's contribution to the ICC's finances is the highest among all member nations. According to the revenue model for the 2024-27 cycle, India currently earns 38.5% of the ICC's total revenue, significantly more than countries like England and Australia. However, Shastri is advocating for an even greater share.
Shastri points out that when India plays abroad, the revenue from television rights and other earnings increases substantially. Therefore, it is reasonable to assert that India should receive a larger share of the revenue.
In a conversation with Wisden Cricket, Shastri stated that India should receive a more significant portion of the ICC's total revenue. He emphasized that the earnings from television rights during overseas matches demonstrate this need. Thus, it is justified to demand a larger share for India.
He further explained that most of the revenue comes from India, and this is dependent on the economy. If another country's economy becomes stronger than India's in the future, the revenue may shift. This was evident in the 70s and 80s when a significant portion of earnings went to other countries. Therefore, it is reasonable for India to request a larger share now.
It is noteworthy that according to the ICC's revenue model, over 88% of the revenue is distributed among the 12 full member countries. Of this, 48.2% is shared among the three dominant cricketing nations: India, England, and Australia. India is the only country that receives a double-digit percentage of 38.5% of the total revenue.