MPCA to provide financial assistance to ex-women cricketers

Indore: Former women cricketers in Madhya Pradesh are set to receive monthly financial assistance, with Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) approving a structured support scheme aimed at players left outside existing benefit systems. The plan was cleared at a managing committee meeting on Monday.The proposal for monthly assistance to former women cricketers was put forward by MPCA president Mahanaaryaman Scindia during the meeting. The scheme will cover players not receiving support from the Board of Control for Cricket in India and will be application-based."The idea is to extend support to those who are not covered under existing systems," MPCA secretary Sudhir Asnani said. The committee also reviewed recent international fixtures hosted by the association.In another key decision, MPCA head coach Chandrakant Pandit was appointed Director of Cricket for a fresh two-year term. Pandit has been the head coach of MPCA since 2020, his contract was extended for two years in 2024, which ended recently.Alongside welfare measures, the association has pushed forward its infrastructure and development agenda.A broader plan to establish cricket academies across MPCA venues is also under preparation, pointing to a stronger focus on grassroots development.Pavilion blocks have been cleared at Morena and Narmadapuram grounds, with completion targeted in the 2026-27 financial year.Technology adoption is also expected from the next season, with the association considering online scoring for divisional matches.Officials also discussed creating a formal assessment system for umpires and scorers to bring greater consistency in officiating standards.The committee also approved an increase in honorariums for umpires, scorers, selectors and coaches, while enhancing assistance for former male players and officials.Who gets whatInt'l players: Rs 12,500 per monthDomestic cricket players: Rs 6,000 -Rs 10,000 (linked to match record)Additional Rs 7,500 earmarked for beneficiaries above 75 years