Cricketers agree virus package to aid game
County cricketers will take “maximum reductions” within their salaries during April and could and have decided to waive œ1 million ($1.25 million) in prize money during the coronavirus crisis, the Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA) announced on Wednesday.
The county championship, comprising four-day matches, was due to start out on Sunday but English cricket is shut down until at least May 28, with the expectation of further postponements.
The PCA on Wednesday welcomed the collective player agreement, which covers an initial period of April and could.
“Discussions between your PCA, ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) and 18 first-class counties reached a conclusion today with all parties supporting a short two-month agreement which will see maximum reductions to player salaries and relinquishing of domestic prize money,” the PCA said in a statement.
The PCA has relinquished œ1 million of the domestic player prize money for 2020 and players may also consent to be furloughed if asked to by their county.
Champions Essex confirmed that the club’s playing staff, along with most non-playing staff, have been placed on furlough.
Several other clubs including Yorkshire and Worcestershire had previously confirmed they might be using the government’s job retention scheme.
PCA chairman Daryl Mitchell said: “The coronavirus pandemic will continue to put financial strain on the game which initial two-month agreement will support the overall game for the time of April and could.
“We were due to get started on the county championship season on Sunday and sadly for us all that won't be the case. As a group of players, we will do everything we are able to to ensure that when cricket does return the activity is able to thrive.”
The ECB the other day announced a œ61 million aid package in response to the “once-in-a-generation” challenge.
