T20 World Cup 2024: ICC investigates non-payment of prize money to players

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is in talks with several cricket boards over the delayed payment of prize money to players from this year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, sources confirmed to Reuters on Thursday.

India triumphed over South Africa in the final of the tournament, which was co-hosted by the US and the West Indies in June. Despite the conclusion of the tournament, some players have yet to receive their due prize money, raising concerns among player advocacy groups.

The World Cricketers’ Association (WCA) issued a statement on Wednesday, revealing that the issue of non-payment has been compounded by reports of "threatening and intimidatory behaviour" directed at players by national governing bodies.

"We are extremely concerned with a number of threats made against players who stand up for themselves and their colleagues in some cricket environments," WCA CEO Tom Moffat said. “We appreciate the ICC’s efforts so far in ensuring players are paid in full and are confident that the ICC will take the necessary steps against any boards failing to fulfill their obligations.”

"Every player in our sport should receive the benefits they are entitled to in full, and should be provided with a safe environment to play, work, and advocate for themselves and their colleagues off the field, through a players' association if they choose."

The ICC has reportedly engaged with five of the 20 participating countries to address the situation and ensure timely payment for all players involved. The global governing body is committed to enforcing the terms of participation to guarantee that players receive the benefits they are entitled to.

In response to these ongoing challenges, the WCA has launched a Global Player Hardship Fund during its annual general meeting in Singapore this week. The fund aims to support international players who lack coverage under existing domestic frameworks, particularly those in need after retiring from the game.

JP Van Wyk, WCA's head of welfare and education, expressed confidence that the new initiative would provide vital support to vulnerable cricketers, stating, "We are certain it is going to assist those current and recently retired international cricketers who are presently unsupported and vulnerable."