BCCI’s Cash Pile Has Soared Since 2019. Here’s What The New Numbers Say

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has seen its cash and bank balance grow from roughly Rs 6,059 crore in 2019 to Rs 20,686 crore by 2024–25, as per figures shared with state units and set to be tabled at the AGM this month. The rise comes even after settling dues to state associations, underlining how strong central revenues have been through this cycle. A big driver has been the Indian Premier League’s commercial engine alongside distributions from global events. The headline surplus for 2023–24 was Rs 1,623.08 crore, up from Rs 1,167.99 crore the previous year, despite a dip in home international media rights income.

How Big The Increase Is?

The board says it has added Rs 14,627 crore to its coffers over five years, including Rs 4,193 crore in the last financial year alone. The general fund has almost doubled in that period, from Rs 3,906 crore in 2019 to Rs 7,988 crore in 2024. There is also a significant buffer for tax matters: Rs 3,150 crore was provisioned for FY 2023–24 while ongoing cases continue in courts and tribunals. Taken together, the numbers point to a stronger balance sheet with conservative provisioning and a rising base of non-broadcast income.

Key Factors Behind Revenue Increase

Two engines did most of the heavy lifting: IPL earnings and ICC event distributions. Even with fewer home internationals reducing gross media rights income (Rs 813.14 crore vs Rs 2,524.80 crore previously), investment income almost doubled thanks to higher returns on deposits (Rs 986.45 crore vs Rs 533.05 crore). The IPL’s stable calendar and multi-year contracts ensure predictable inflows and better planning. That mix—recurring league revenue, global tournament shares, and improved treasury returns—insulated the board in a year with a lighter home schedule.

Where The BCCI is Spending the Money

For 2023–24, Rs 1,200 crore has been set aside for infrastructure, Rs 350 crore for a platinum jubilee benevolent fund, and Rs 500 crore for cricket development. State associations received Rs 1,990.18 crore last year, with Rs 2,013.97 crore projected in the current cycle. The capex line typically covers stadium upgrades, academy and CoE facilities, and match operations, while development funds support pathways, domestic competitions, and women’s cricket. The benevolent fund signals a long-term commitment to player welfare and support for former cricketers.

Why It Matters?

Financial headroom allows the BCCI to push ahead on infrastructure, scheduling flexibility, and grassroots investment without depending solely on a packed home season. It also provides cover as sponsor categories churn and rights cycles evolve. With Asia Cup underway in the UAE and a heavy international calendar ahead, clear budgets for player welfare, logistics, and venue readiness are vital. The upcoming AGM on September 28 will formalize these accounts and outline where the next tranche of investment is headed.