Ravichandran Ashwin, one of India’s finest Test cricketers, is set to receive a significant pension post-retirement. In contrast, Vinod Kambli’s pension reflects his shorter international career. This listicle breaks down the key factors behind their pension disparity, offering insights into BCCI’s policies and the broader implications for cricketers.
After retiring from international cricket, R Ashwin is set to receive ₹60,000 per month as a pension, a benefit reserved for former Test cricketers.
Vinod Kambli, a former first-class cricketer with limited Test appearances, currently receives ₹30,000 per month as a pension, following the BCCI’s 2022 revision.
Ashwin’s pension is double that of Kambli’s due to the categorization differences between Test and first-class cricketers under BCCI’s pension scheme.
Ashwin played 106 Tests, earning him a higher pension bracket, while Kambli’s 17 Test matches limit him to the first-class category benefits.
BCCI increased pensions in 2022:
First-class cricketers: ₹30,000/month
Former Test players: ₹60,000-₹70,000/month
A long and consistent Test career like Ashwin’s ensures higher pension eligibility, while Kambli’s short stint restricts him to a lower tier.
Ashwin’s pension reflects his significant contributions to Indian cricket, including exceptional performances across formats, as compared to Kambli’s brief international tenure.
Kambli’s financial struggles and health challenges post-retirement highlight the impact of a short cricketing career on long-term benefits like pensions.
Yuvraj Singh, another former Test cricketer, also receives ₹60,000 per month, aligning him with Ashwin, showcasing consistency in BCCI’s policies for Test players.
The pension disparity sparked conversations online, with fans debating whether BCCI should consider non-Test contributions or life challenges in their pension policies.