KEY POINTS:
Do not talk to our cricketers about a supposed economic downturn.
The Herald on Sunday can reveal the huge pay increases the country's 20 centrally contracted players will receive, as well as the 72 semi-professionals contracted by the six major associations.
The increase, on the back of the $50 million broadcasting deal with Sony Television India that was signed last year, amounts to close to a 40 per cent pay rise.
The good news doesn't end there either, with news the new pay scales will be back-dated to June 1, 2006, meaning anybody contracted to New Zealand Cricket (NZC) or a major association will receive a significant lump sum in their pockets within the next month.
A high-ranking player such as Daniel Vettori or Brendon McCullum, who has played most if not all games for New Zealand in that period, is looking at a six-figure lump sum in back pay alone. NZC chief executive Justin Vaughan said this lump will be paid in two instalments, half now and half upon the conclusion of India's tour to New Zealand next season.
The new scale will see the top-ranked NZC-contracted player earn $174,000 as a retainer fee. This amount decreases in $6000 increments to No 18 on the ranking list. Players 18 through 20 will receive an annual retainer of $72,000.
This is a huge increase on the $128,000 Shane Bond received as No 1-ranked player on the old scale, while Craig Cumming, No 20 on the current list (until the defections of Shane Bond and Lou Vincent at least) was on a retainer of $48,000.
On the domestic scene, the top-ranked player will now earn a $36,500 retainer while the 12th-ranked player will pick up $19,500. This is up from $24,000 and $12,000 respectively.
"This will keep players staying in the game longer," Vaughan said. "That's what you want. If you look at New Zealand cricket over the past 10 years the players who don't think they've got a chance of playing international cricket retire in their late-20s.
"We want more Michael Parlanes playing, guys that can teach the younger ones what first-class cricket is about. It adds a lot of depth and solidity to our domestic game."
The effect at the top level should be felt as well, with the increase likely to appease those dreaming of ICL riches. New Zealand appears to have weathered the storm for the time being with the ICL not in recruitment mode now while they concentrate on their next tournament that starts this month. Vincent, who defected last week, is expected to be the last New Zealander to sign for the next six months at least.
"It's hard to compete with the chequebook numbers of the ICL but it is good; if you're playing most of the games for the Black Caps you're doing well. If you add on the potential to pick up IPL contracts or play a short stint in county cricket, the compensation is very good."
There has been significant rises in the match fees as well, with tests, for example, rising to $7325 from $6000.
"It's a fantastic result for our cricketers," said Players' Association manager Heath Mills.
This deal will go through to June 1, 2010.
