What Is Virat Kohli’s Match Fees?
Virat Kohli, one of cricket’s biggest stars, made headlines recently. It was for an on-field incident with Australian debutant Sam Konstas in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. The ICC handed Kohli a 20% fine on his match fees after he accepted the charge for a shoulder nudge during the match. But how much does the Indian batting legend earn per Test match? And how will the deduction affect his earnings for the ongoing series?
Virat Kohli’s Match Fees in Test Cricket
As a Grade A+ cricketer under the BCCI, Virat Kohli gets specific match fees for each format of the game. For every Test match, Indian cricketers, including Kohli, earn a standard fee of ₹15 lakhs per match.
However, the ICC’s fine has reduced Kohli’s earnings for the Melbourne Test.
How Much Will Virat Kohli Earn After the 20% Fine?
Since Kohli has been penalized 20% of his match fees, the breakdown is as follows:
- Standard Match Fees: ₹15 lakhs
- Fine (20%): ₹3 lakhs
- Final Earnings After Deduction: ₹12 lakhs
Why Virat Kohli Won’t Earn Additional Bonuses
Earlier in 2024, the BCCI introduced a new incentive structure for Test players. Players who play in over 75% of the Test matches in a year are eligible for an extra ₹30 lakhs per match. This raises their total earnings to ₹45 lakhs per Test.
However, Virat Kohli has played just 10 Tests out of the 15 scheduled for India in 2024. This accounts for only 66.7% participation, falling short of the 75% threshold. As a result, Kohli will miss out on the ₹30-lakh bonus and will not earn ₹45 lakhs for the Melbourne Test.
What Led to Kohli’s ICC Fine?
During the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, Sam Konstas was in sublime form, taking the Indian bowlers to the cleaners. During the action, Kohli, switching sides between overs, nudged the 19-year-old debutant. It seemed a heated moment. The ICC found Kohli’s act unsportsmanlike. It fined him 20% of his match fees and added a demerit point to his record. No physical harm was caused.
The fine slightly affects Virat Kohli’s earnings for the Boxing Day Test. But, his contribution to the game is priceless for fans worldwide. The BCCI’s bonus scheme motivates players like Kohli. They seek to push boundaries in Test cricket.
