BCCI’s Financial Surge: INR 14,627 Crore Boost Since 2019

While death and taxes are often considered life’s only certainties, the continuous growth of the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) finances seems equally assured. A report shared with state associations highlighted that the BCCI had a bank balance of INR 20,686 crore as of a year ago.

This figure is expected to have increased significantly over the past year, with financial updates to be provided at the AGM on September 28, despite the BCCI’s ongoing substantial income tax payments.

According to the accounts statement submitted at the 2024 AGM, the Honorary Secretary informed members that the BCCI’s cash and bank balance grew from INR 6,059 crore in 2019—before distributions to state cricket associations—to INR 20,686 crore after fulfilling these obligations.

Since 2019, BCCI has accumulated an additional INR 14,627 crore over the past five years, including a INR 4,193 crore increase from the last financial year. The general fund also rose from INR 3,906 crore in 2019 to INR 7,988 crore, marking a INR 4,082 crore increase.

The report dispels the notion that BCCI avoids paying income tax, having earmarked over INR 3,000 crore for tax obligations while contesting matters in various tribunals. The BCCI has set aside INR 3,150 crore for FY 2023-24 tax responsibilities.

The board’s revenue could have been higher, but it experienced a decrease in gross media rights income from international matches, falling from INR 2,524.80 crore to INR 813.14 crore due to fewer international homes series. The 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, hosted by BCCI in October-November, influenced these figures.

Key Points from the 2023-24 Audited Financial Statement

Income from Tours: Revenue from Men’s Senior International Tours decreased to INR 361.22 crore from INR 642.78 crore the previous year.

Investment Income: Interest income on bank deposits rose to INR 986.45 crore from INR 533.05 crore, as BCCI secured high ROI under the guidance of Mr. Jay Shah.

Surplus: The income surplus was INR 1,623.08 crore, up from INR 1,167.99 crore, primarily due to IPL 2023 surplus and ICC distributions.

Funds: BCCI allocated INR 1,200 crore for infrastructure, INR 350 crore for the platinum jubilee benevolent fund, and INR 500 crore for cricket development infrastructure, supporting the sport’s growth and former players.

Significant funds are directed towards state cricket associations, totaling INR 1,990.18 crore for 2023-24, with a projected allocation of INR 2,013.97 crore for 2024-25.