This archive report was first published on 20 April 2020.
As the novel coronavirus continues to spread globally, forcing countries to close their borders and impose lockdowns, the cricket world is bracing for a significant financial crisis. The spread of the virus has halted professional cricket, leaving most boards, including Cricket Australia (CA), to prepare for substantial revenue falls.
CA, the governing body of the sport, has already announced plans to lay off almost 80% of its staff, putting them on 20% pay until June 30. According to media reports, CA Chief Executive Kevin Roberts has informed staff that a financial crisis was imminent, and the organisation would not have been able to pay its bills at the end of August without layoffs.
Former Australia captain Mark Taylor and wicket-keeping great Adam Gilchrist believe pay cuts are inevitable for the country's cricketers. Gilchrist, who retired in 2008 after a glittering career spanning almost 12 years, said the players were next in line for pay cuts.
“Without being aware of any numbers and the financial side of it, I wouldn’t be surprised if we go back a decade or two to the level of payment that players get. Even maybe further for a while,” Gilchrist told ABC Grandstand on Sunday.
According to Gilchrist, the revenue is expected to go down significantly, with 50% being a conservative estimate. He believes the players will take a significant hit, with pay cuts likely to be substantial.
Former CA board member Mark Taylor echoed Gilchrist's sentiments, stating, “There will be haircuts, as we’ve seen from CA staff. Players will be next.”
With the Indian Premier League, a lucrative tournament that offers big pay cheques for the players, postponed indefinitely, the cricket world is facing an uncertain future.
