How can ICC break Indian monopoly on cricket?

[sweep_shot]

As we know, ICC has become BCCICC. India has become the unofficial controller of ICC.

How can ICC break free? How can ICC ensure more fairness to cricket world?

I asked DeepSeek AI these questions and here were the answers:

=====================================

The ICC's dependence on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) stems from India's massive commercial influence in cricket, contributing a significant share of global cricket revenue through broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and fan engagement. To reduce this dependence, the ICC and other cricket boards can take several strategic steps:

1. Diversify Revenue Streams​

• Expand Global Markets: Grow cricket in emerging markets (USA, Europe, Africa, East Asia) through T20 leagues, grassroots programs, and ICC tournaments.
• Maximize Media Rights: Ensure competitive bidding for broadcasting rights in non-traditional markets to reduce reliance on Indian broadcasters.
• Sponsorship Diversity: Attract non-Indian multinational sponsors (e.g., American, European, Middle Eastern brands) for ICC events.

2. Strengthen Other Cricket Boards​

• Financial Model Reforms: Distribute ICC revenue more equitably to help smaller boards (West Indies, Sri Lanka, etc.) become self-sustainable.
• Commercial Independence: Encourage other boards (e.g., ECB, CA, PCB) to develop their own lucrative leagues and bilateral series to balance BCCI's dominance.

3. Promote Competitive Balance​

• More ICC Events: Increase the number of World Cups (T20, ODI, Test) and multi-nation tournaments to shift focus from bilateral series dominated by India.
• Global League Structures: Introduce cross-nation franchise leagues (like ILT20, Major League Cricket) to decentralize cricket's financial hubs.

4. Reduce Reliance on Indian Audience​

• Time-Zone Adjustments: Schedule more high-profile matches in non-Indian prime-time slots to engage audiences in the USA, UK, Australia, etc.
• Digital Engagement: Grow cricket’s social media and streaming presence in non-Indian markets (e.g., Willow TV, ESPN+).

5. Governance & Voting Power Reforms​

• Democratize ICC Decision-Making: Reduce the BCCI's veto power by restructuring ICC governance to prevent single-board dominance.
• Transparent Revenue Sharing: Implement a model where financial distributions reward development and performance, not just market size.

6. Invest in New Formats & Innovations​

• Push for Olympic Inclusion: Cricket in the Olympics (2028+) could unlock government funding and global interest beyond traditional cricket nations.
• Focus on Women’s Cricket: Accelerate growth in women’s cricket, which has untapped commercial potential beyond India.

Challenges​

• BCCI’s Resistance: India may oppose changes that dilute its influence, given its financial contributions.
• Short-Term Revenue Risks: Reducing dependence on India could initially lower income until new markets mature.

Conclusion​

The ICC must adopt a long-term strategy to grow cricket globally while ensuring financial stability. By expanding into new markets, empowering other boards, and restructuring governance, the ICC can gradually reduce its reliance on India without alienating the BCCI.

===================================================

Deep Dive: How ICC Can Reduce Dependence on BCCI Through Revenue Models & League Structures​

The ICC’s financial reliance on India is primarily due to two factors:

1. Broadcasting Revenue – Indian broadcasters (Star Sports, Sony, Jio) contribute ~70-80% of global cricket media rights revenue.
2. Bilateral Series & IPL Dominance – India’s home matches and the IPL generate far more money than other cricketing nations’ events.

To reduce this dependence, the ICC and other boards must restructure revenue distribution and league ecosystems to create alternative income streams.

---

1. Reforming ICC Revenue Models​

Current Model (FTP & ICC Distributions)​

• Big Three (BCCI, ECB, CA) get ~38% of ICC revenue (India alone gets ~22-25%).
• Smaller boards (WI, SL, ZIM) depend on ICC handouts and India tours for survival.
• Problem: This centralizes power with India, as other boards can’t survive without playing (and generating revenue from) India.

Alternative Revenue Models to Reduce DCCI Dependence​

A. Equalization Fund Model (Football-Style)​

• How it works:
  • ICC retains a larger % of tournament revenues (e.g., 50%) for equal distribution.
  • Performance-based bonuses (e.g., teams reaching knockouts earn extra).
  • Example: FIFA distributes World Cup revenue more evenly (even smaller nations get significant payouts).
• Pros:
  • Reduces financial disparity.
  • Smaller boards can invest in infrastructure.
• Cons:
  • BCCI may resist reduced shares.
  • Needs strong governance to prevent misuse.

B. Centralized Media Rights Pool (Like UEFA Champions League)​

• How it works:
  • ICC negotiates all bilateral series media rights collectively (instead of individual boards).
  • Revenue split based on viewership contribution + fixed minimums.
• Pros:
  • Prevents India from monopolizing broadcast deals.
  • Guarantees steady income for smaller teams.
• Cons:
  • BCCI/ECB/CA may oppose losing control over their own rights.

C. Non-Indian Market Monetization​

• Strategy:
  • USA/Canada: Push Major League Cricket (MLC) and ICC T20 WC 2024 success.
  • Middle East: Leverage UAE’s ILT20 for Asian expat audiences.
  • Europe: Target UK, Netherlands, Germany via T10/Euro T20.
• Revenue Levers:
  • Sell separate ICC media rights for USA (ESPN+, Willow TV) and Middle East (beIN Sports).
  • Encourage non-Indian sponsors (Amazon, Coca-Cola, Aramco) for global events.

---

2. League Structures to Decentralize Financial Power​

Current Problem: IPL Monopoly​

• IPL = 60%+ of global T20 league revenue (~$11B media rights vs. PSL’s $150M).
• Most foreign players prioritize IPL over domestic leagues due to higher pay.

Alternative League Models to Reduce IPL Dominance​

A. Franchise-Based Global League (Like Champions League Football)​

• Concept:
  • "ICC Champions T20 League" – Top 4 teams from IPL, PSL, BBL, CPL, etc., compete in a 6-week annual tournament.
  • Hosted in rotating neutral venues (UAE, USA, UK) to avoid India-centric scheduling.
• Revenue Model:
  • Centralized ICC-controlled broadcasting & sponsorship.
  • Equal revenue sharing among participating leagues.
• Impact:
  • Reduces reliance on IPL for player earnings.
  • Gives PSL, CPL, BBL teams a bigger financial stake.

B. Regional League Partnerships (Like European Cricket League)​

• Example Structures:
  • "Asian Premier League" (India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh combined).
  • "Americas T20 Cup" (USA, West Indies, Canada joint league).
• Benefits:
  • Shared costs & bigger commercial appeal.
  • Prevents BCCI from monopolizing Asian viewership.

C. Salary Cap & Player Distribution Reforms​

• Problem: IPL’s unlimited salaries drain talent from other leagues.
  
  
• Solution:
  • ICC-regulated "soft salary cap" for all T20 leagues (e.g., max $10M squad budget).
  • Player draft quotas (e.g., max 4 overseas players per team, distributed evenly).
• Impact:
  • Stops IPL from hoarding all star players.
  • Makes PSL, BBL, CPL more competitive.

---

Challenges & Risks​

1. BCCI Resistance – Any move to reduce India’s financial dominance will face pushback.
2. Short-Term Revenue Dip – New markets (USA, Europe) take time to mature.
3. League Overload – Too many leagues could dilute quality.

Final Verdict​

The ICC must:
✔ Adopt a more equitable revenue-sharing model (FIFA-style).
✔ Create a global franchise league to compete with IPL.
✔ Aggressively monetize non-Indian markets (USA, Middle East).

Without these steps, cricket’s financial ecosystem will remain overwhelmingly dependent on India, leaving the sport vulnerable if the BCCI ever decides to isolate itself (e.g., IPL-only model).

 

[uppercut]

Assalam-alaikum ChatGPT miya ... sab khairiyat ?

 

[Devadwal]

Grok reply - Beggers can't break the monopoly. EOD.

 

[sweep_shot]

Assalam-alaikum ChatGPT miya ... sab khairiyat ?

Walaikum. All good.

So, how can ICC break monopoly of India in cricket? Any insight?

 

[uppercut]

Walaikum. All good.

So, how can ICC break monopoly of India in cricket? Any insight?

very simple ... convert Jay Shah to ... Jaish Shah ... problem solved ... No ?

 

[mominsaigol]

As we know, ICC has become BCCICC. India has become the unofficial controller of ICC.

How can ICC break free? How can ICC ensure more fairness to cricket world?

I asked DeepSeek AI these questions and here were the answers:

=====================================

The ICC's dependence on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) stems from India's massive commercial influence in cricket, contributing a significant share of global cricket revenue through broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and fan engagement. To reduce this dependence, the ICC and other cricket boards can take several strategic steps:

1. Diversify Revenue Streams​

• Expand Global Markets: Grow cricket in emerging markets (USA, Europe, Africa, East Asia) through T20 leagues, grassroots programs, and ICC tournaments.
• Maximize Media Rights: Ensure competitive bidding for broadcasting rights in non-traditional markets to reduce reliance on Indian broadcasters.
• Sponsorship Diversity: Attract non-Indian multinational sponsors (e.g., American, European, Middle Eastern brands) for ICC events.

2. Strengthen Other Cricket Boards​

• Financial Model Reforms: Distribute ICC revenue more equitably to help smaller boards (West Indies, Sri Lanka, etc.) become self-sustainable.
• Commercial Independence: Encourage other boards (e.g., ECB, CA, PCB) to develop their own lucrative leagues and bilateral series to balance BCCI's dominance.

3. Promote Competitive Balance​

• More ICC Events: Increase the number of World Cups (T20, ODI, Test) and multi-nation tournaments to shift focus from bilateral series dominated by India.
• Global League Structures: Introduce cross-nation franchise leagues (like ILT20, Major League Cricket) to decentralize cricket's financial hubs.

4. Reduce Reliance on Indian Audience​

• Time-Zone Adjustments: Schedule more high-profile matches in non-Indian prime-time slots to engage audiences in the USA, UK, Australia, etc.
• Digital Engagement: Grow cricket’s social media and streaming presence in non-Indian markets (e.g., Willow TV, ESPN+).

5. Governance & Voting Power Reforms​

• Democratize ICC Decision-Making: Reduce the BCCI's veto power by restructuring ICC governance to prevent single-board dominance.
• Transparent Revenue Sharing: Implement a model where financial distributions reward development and performance, not just market size.

6. Invest in New Formats & Innovations​

• Push for Olympic Inclusion: Cricket in the Olympics (2028+) could unlock government funding and global interest beyond traditional cricket nations.
• Focus on Women’s Cricket: Accelerate growth in women’s cricket, which has untapped commercial potential beyond India.

Challenges​

• BCCI’s Resistance: India may oppose changes that dilute its influence, given its financial contributions.
• Short-Term Revenue Risks: Reducing dependence on India could initially lower income until new markets mature.

Conclusion​

The ICC must adopt a long-term strategy to grow cricket globally while ensuring financial stability. By expanding into new markets, empowering other boards, and restructuring governance, the ICC can gradually reduce its reliance on India without alienating the BCCI.

===================================================

Deep Dive: How ICC Can Reduce Dependence on BCCI Through Revenue Models & League Structures​

The ICC’s financial reliance on India is primarily due to two factors:

1. Broadcasting Revenue – Indian broadcasters (Star Sports, Sony, Jio) contribute ~70-80% of global cricket media rights revenue.
2. Bilateral Series & IPL Dominance – India’s home matches and the IPL generate far more money than other cricketing nations’ events.

To reduce this dependence, the ICC and other boards must restructure revenue distribution and league ecosystems to create alternative income streams.

---

1. Reforming ICC Revenue Models​

Current Model (FTP & ICC Distributions)​

• Big Three (BCCI, ECB, CA) get ~38% of ICC revenue (India alone gets ~22-25%).
• Smaller boards (WI, SL, ZIM) depend on ICC handouts and India tours for survival.
• Problem: This centralizes power with India, as other boards can’t survive without playing (and generating revenue from) India.

Alternative Revenue Models to Reduce DCCI Dependence​

A. Equalization Fund Model (Football-Style)​

• How it works:
  • ICC retains a larger % of tournament revenues (e.g., 50%) for equal distribution.
  • Performance-based bonuses (e.g., teams reaching knockouts earn extra).
  • Example: FIFA distributes World Cup revenue more evenly (even smaller nations get significant payouts).
• Pros:
  • Reduces financial disparity.
  • Smaller boards can invest in infrastructure.
• Cons:
  • BCCI may resist reduced shares.
  • Needs strong governance to prevent misuse.

B. Centralized Media Rights Pool (Like UEFA Champions League)​

• How it works:
  • ICC negotiates all bilateral series media rights collectively (instead of individual boards).
  • Revenue split based on viewership contribution + fixed minimums.
• Pros:
  • Prevents India from monopolizing broadcast deals.
  • Guarantees steady income for smaller teams.
• Cons:
  • BCCI/ECB/CA may oppose losing control over their own rights.

C. Non-Indian Market Monetization​

• Strategy:
  • USA/Canada: Push Major League Cricket (MLC) and ICC T20 WC 2024 success.
  • Middle East: Leverage UAE’s ILT20 for Asian expat audiences.
  • Europe: Target UK, Netherlands, Germany via T10/Euro T20.
• Revenue Levers:
  • Sell separate ICC media rights for USA (ESPN+, Willow TV) and Middle East (beIN Sports).
  • Encourage non-Indian sponsors (Amazon, Coca-Cola, Aramco) for global events.

---

2. League Structures to Decentralize Financial Power​

Current Problem: IPL Monopoly​

• IPL = 60%+ of global T20 league revenue (~$11B media rights vs. PSL’s $150M).
• Most foreign players prioritize IPL over domestic leagues due to higher pay.

Alternative League Models to Reduce IPL Dominance​

A. Franchise-Based Global League (Like Champions League Football)​

• Concept:
  • "ICC Champions T20 League" – Top 4 teams from IPL, PSL, BBL, CPL, etc., compete in a 6-week annual tournament.
  • Hosted in rotating neutral venues (UAE, USA, UK) to avoid India-centric scheduling.
• Revenue Model:
  • Centralized ICC-controlled broadcasting & sponsorship.
  • Equal revenue sharing among participating leagues.
• Impact:
  • Reduces reliance on IPL for player earnings.
  • Gives PSL, CPL, BBL teams a bigger financial stake.

B. Regional League Partnerships (Like European Cricket League)​

• Example Structures:
  • "Asian Premier League" (India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh combined).
  • "Americas T20 Cup" (USA, West Indies, Canada joint league).
• Benefits:
  • Shared costs & bigger commercial appeal.
  • Prevents BCCI from monopolizing Asian viewership.

C. Salary Cap & Player Distribution Reforms​

• Problem: IPL’s unlimited salaries drain talent from other leagues.
  
  
• Solution:
  • ICC-regulated "soft salary cap" for all T20 leagues (e.g., max $10M squad budget).
  • Player draft quotas (e.g., max 4 overseas players per team, distributed evenly).
• Impact:
  • Stops IPL from hoarding all star players.
  • Makes PSL, BBL, CPL more competitive.

---

Challenges & Risks​

1. BCCI Resistance – Any move to reduce India’s financial dominance will face pushback.
2. Short-Term Revenue Dip – New markets (USA, Europe) take time to mature.
3. League Overload – Too many leagues could dilute quality.

Final Verdict​

The ICC must:
✔ Adopt a more equitable revenue-sharing model (FIFA-style).
✔ Create a global franchise league to compete with IPL.
✔ Aggressively monetize non-Indian markets (USA, Middle East).

Without these steps, cricket’s financial ecosystem will remain overwhelmingly dependent on India, leaving the sport vulnerable if the BCCI ever decides to isolate itself (e.g., IPL-only model).

Won't happen until and unless some bigger party comes in and starts paying reducing bcci control.

Australia doesnt care and has other sports + other country affairs to worry about. England eco is collapsing and cant pay or support.

However improvements are being made such as preventing wtc final from being shifted. The ball swaps that caused Pant to react.

It seems in test cricket atleast, India is not being treated like Aus or England who clearly have an advantage from an umpiring + hosting stand point

 

[Sachin fan]

All the best. Although it's likely to go the other way in reality (i.e. BCCI gaining more power)

 

[harshjoshi87]

Nobody can ever break BCCI's monopoly.

But to revive people's interest & make money, boards can arrange tri series like in 1990's & early 2000's.

Zimbabwe have scheduled T20 tri-series with South Africa & New Zealand next month, other boards apart from big 3 should arrange such series.

PCB should continue with the tri-series they started this year.

 

[RidiculousMan]

@sweep_shot Shoaib Akhtar recently mentioned that with Cricket in Olympics might be the event that turns it around. It will make Cricket a global sport and will mark the beginning of the end of Indian hegemony.

 

[Ball Blazer]

To break India's monopoly on cricket, the ICC must enforce equitable revenue sharing, decentralize tournament hosting, and curb the overreach of BCCI officials like Jay Shah whose influence increasingly blurs the line between governance and control.

 

[Hikaru]

There you go Sweepy.

---

1. Diversify Revenue Streams​

Expanding into new markets is everyone's favorite fantasy. But let’s get real — cricket isn’t spreading because of PowerPoint decks and hashtag campaigns. It spreads where there’s real audience, money, and national passion.


You can throw a T20 match in Dallas, Tokyo, or Berlin — but if India isn’t playing, the crowd’s half-empty, broadcasters are losing money, and sponsors are wondering why they invested in a glorified exhibition. Even the so-called “global” leagues like MLC and ILT20 rely on Indian money, expat fans, and Indian star power.


Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s own Premier League is a circus — late payments, shady owners, and players ghosting contracts. You want to talk diversification? Start with learning how to run one functional T20 league without it collapsing in scandal.

---

2. Strengthen Other Cricket Boards​

You can’t throw ICC handouts at dysfunctional boards and expect miracles. West Indies is more fractured than ever. Zimbabwe’s cricket is a political playground. And Bangladesh — where do we begin?


The BCB operates like a family business — filled with ego-driven selectors, ever-rotating captains, player bans over silly tweets, and a fanbase that thinks screaming louder equals cricketing credibility. They produce drama faster than they produce match-winners.


India built power through a product that works — IPL, financial transparency (by comparison), and turning players into brands. Other boards? Still busy deciding whether to schedule practice camps or fight on Facebook. Strength can’t be gifted. It has to be earned. Bangladesh hasn't earned anything beyond the occasional upset and full-time victim complex.

---

3. Promote Competitive Balance​

Let’s hold more ICC tournaments! Sure — and then watch the same teams dominate because… newsflash: skill gap exists. Competitive balance isn’t about adding tournaments. It’s about teams showing up and performing consistently.


But here’s what happens:

• Bangladesh beats a tired top team once, and suddenly it’s a revolution.
• Next week? Fold like an origami set. Blame the pitch, lights, umpires, weather, colonialism, and India — in that order.

Your “balance” is India playing 20 high-pressure games a year while Bangladesh plays 3, wins 1, and makes a documentary about it.


More tournaments won’t fix the imbalance. Better systems, better domestic leagues, and better boards might. Until then, stop calling for tournaments that only exist to give weaker teams a participation medal.

---

4. Reduce Reliance on Indian Audience​

Let’s move games away from Indian prime time. Genius. Let’s also burn down the house because someone’s jealous of the electricity bill.


India is the cricket audience. Remove India and 70% of broadcasters drop out, advertisers vanish, and you’re left with a YouTube stream watched by the host country’s population and their pets.


And let’s be honest — Bangladesh’s audience isn’t tuning in to watch neutral games. They’re foaming at the mouth only when India’s playing. If ICC stopped scheduling India games, even Bangladeshi fans would protest — not to support fairness, but because their TV schedules would be empty.


The argument here is like blaming your neighbor for owning a car while you’re still riding a donkey.

---

5. Governance & Voting Power Reforms​

“Let’s make ICC more democratic!” Cool. Based on what — dreams?


India brings in more money than most of the other boards combined. Why would they get the same vote as a board that can’t even maintain stadium drainage or pay its players on time?


If Bangladesh wants a bigger voice, try beating Afghanistan consistently, then talk. Try running a board without ego fights and suspension threats every six months.


Let’s stop pretending governance is the problem. The real issue is some boards want equal say without equal contribution. That’s not fairness — that’s freeloading.

---

6. Invest in New Formats & Innovations​

Yes, yes, we all want cricket in the Olympics. But are you seriously saying India’s the one holding it back? India has supported it. Even the women's IPL took off because of India — not despite it.


Where’s Bangladesh’s innovation? Still stuck between blaming India for every loss and switching captains mid-series. The BCB’s version of innovation is announcing a ban, then unbanning a player in the same press conference.


Olympic inclusion, women’s cricket, tech upgrades — they need structure, not slogans. Right now, Bangladesh Cricket can barely handle its current mess — let’s not hand them anything global to screw up.

---

Revenue Sharing & League Models​

Revenue models like UEFA or FIFA? Those work because multiple nations bring equal value. In cricket, only one or two do — and India’s doing most of the heavy lifting.


You want to pool broadcasting rights? Who’s buying Namibia vs Bangladesh media rights for millions without India on the card? No one.
You want performance-based rewards? Fine — that knocks Bangladesh down to the associate tier instantly.


This whole “new model” talk sounds noble. But when boards like Bangladesh can’t build a stadium without controversy, or run a league without ghost payments, the problem isn’t the model. It’s the people misusing it.

---

Final Word​

India didn’t hijack cricket. India just showed up — with fans, money, and a working product.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh cricket still acts like it deserves a seat at the grown-up table because of an upset from 2007 and a political agenda dressed up as cricket reform.


The way forward isn’t to “reduce India’s influence.” It’s to earn yours. Fix your board. Pay your players. Build a league that people want to watch. Beat top teams consistently. Until then, stop preaching balance from the bottom of the points table.

 

[U$ofA]

The way forward isn’t to “reduce India’s influence.” It’s to earn yours. Fix your board. Pay your players. Build a league that people want to watch. Beat top teams consistently. Until then, stop preaching balance from the bottom of the points table.

What a great line!

EARNING does not seem to be in the vocabulary of most cricket boards or the ICC. Almost all of them want to freeload off BCCI.

 

[Rajdeep]

The reason for India's dominance in world cricket is largely due to its fans and that massive fanbase has been built on the back of the team’s consistent on-field performance. India, like many other Asian countries, is a cricket-loving nation and excels primarily in this one sport. However, other Asian teams are either minnows or no longer have the strength they once did. As a result, fans have lost interest, leading to fewer viewers, which in turn reduces revenue and influence.

Take Bangladesh, for example. They had a huge following when Mashrafe Mortaza was captain and the team performed well between 2015 and 2018. But that enthusiasm has completely faded due to poor on-field performances in recent years.

Pakistani fans, too, are disillusioned with their team's regular defeats. How can fans rally behind a team that loses to Zimbabwe and the USA, and gets knocked out within three days of a major ICC tournament on home soil?

Sri Lanka? Well, it’s no secret they are no longer the powerhouse they once were, and fans simply don’t feel the same connection anymore.

India is the only team that refuses to let its performance dip. Sachin retired? No problem—Kohli stepped up. Kohli fading? Enter Shubman Gill. This pipeline of consistent performers is why India commands such a huge fan following. As a result, the BCCI earns massive revenues and wields immense influence.

As for teams like England and Australia, they do have influence within the ICC. However, cricket is not their primary sport, and they can never match the level of viewership or fan passion seen in Asian countries.

The only way to challenge the BCCI’s dominance is through other teams improving their on-field performance.

Poor performances and a desire to break the monopoly within the ICC simply don’t go hand in hand.

#RajdeepSpeaks (not ChatGPT)

 

[DeadlyVenom]

It won't happen. They are too big and their off field success is somewhat deserved, too, due to the way their cricket mad fans embrace the game.

In the short term the only way it can happen is if rival boards band together, but this is not something that is in the interest of most boards.

The best way would be for someone who is not just commercially savvy but a genuine cricket lover too to assume the chairmanship of BCCI.

 

[rpant_gabba]

It won't happen. They are too big and their off field success is somewhat deserved, too, due to the way their cricket mad fans embrace the game.

In the short term the only way it can happen is if rival boards band together, but this is not something that is in the interest of most boards.

The best way would be for someone who is not just commercially savvy but a genuine cricket lover too to assume the chairmanship of BCCI.

Resurrect Mohandas Karamchand and Jawaharlal

 

[U$ofA]

Not sure if there is any value in discussing this topic. The people who need to make the change happen have no intention to work towards it. So this exercise will be futile.

 

[Bhaijaan]

@sweep_shot

While I don’t agree at all with blaming BCCI for the failure of other cricket boards in managing crickets marketing within their country, to answer your question, I would like to first say that’s it’s ironic for a Bangladeshi to start a discussion like this because BCCI misused its influence in the late 90s to get test status for Bangladesh at a time countries like Zimbabwe and Kenya were showing much more promise. Bangladesh in turn have been by far the worst cricket nation ever. 30 years of cricket and still an overwhelming minnow. Countries make a financial loss when they host Bangladesh as no one buys the ticket or is even interested to watch it on stream. BCCI is not responsible for Bangladesh sucking at cricket after three decades of unfair chances given to them thanks to BCCI.

 

[sweep_shot]

@sweep_shot

While I don’t agree at all with blaming BCCI for the failure of other cricket boards in managing crickets marketing within their country, to answer your question, I would like to first say that’s it’s ironic for a Bangladeshi to start a discussion like this because BCCI misused its influence in the late 90s to get test status for Bangladesh at a time countries like Zimbabwe and Kenya were showing much more promise. Bangladesh in turn have been by far the worst cricket nation ever. 30 years of cricket and still an overwhelming minnow. Countries make a financial loss when they host Bangladesh as no one buys the ticket or is even interested to watch it on stream. BCCI is not responsible for Bangladesh sucking at cricket after three decades of unfair chances given to them thanks to BCCI.

I do not write as a Bangladeshi fan. I write as a cricket fan.

I watch cricket out of love for cricket and not for Bangladesh. Not everyone is a blind nationalist like you Indians. LOL.

Bangladesh has nothing to do with this thread.

 

[sweep_shot]

There you go Sweepy.

---

1. Diversify Revenue Streams​

Expanding into new markets is everyone's favorite fantasy. But let’s get real — cricket isn’t spreading because of PowerPoint decks and hashtag campaigns. It spreads where there’s real audience, money, and national passion.


You can throw a T20 match in Dallas, Tokyo, or Berlin — but if India isn’t playing, the crowd’s half-empty, broadcasters are losing money, and sponsors are wondering why they invested in a glorified exhibition. Even the so-called “global” leagues like MLC and ILT20 rely on Indian money, expat fans, and Indian star power.


Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s own Premier League is a circus — late payments, shady owners, and players ghosting contracts. You want to talk diversification? Start with learning how to run one functional T20 league without it collapsing in scandal.

---

2. Strengthen Other Cricket Boards​

You can’t throw ICC handouts at dysfunctional boards and expect miracles. West Indies is more fractured than ever. Zimbabwe’s cricket is a political playground. And Bangladesh — where do we begin?


The BCB operates like a family business — filled with ego-driven selectors, ever-rotating captains, player bans over silly tweets, and a fanbase that thinks screaming louder equals cricketing credibility. They produce drama faster than they produce match-winners.


India built power through a product that works — IPL, financial transparency (by comparison), and turning players into brands. Other boards? Still busy deciding whether to schedule practice camps or fight on Facebook. Strength can’t be gifted. It has to be earned. Bangladesh hasn't earned anything beyond the occasional upset and full-time victim complex.

---

3. Promote Competitive Balance​

Let’s hold more ICC tournaments! Sure — and then watch the same teams dominate because… newsflash: skill gap exists. Competitive balance isn’t about adding tournaments. It’s about teams showing up and performing consistently.


But here’s what happens:

• Bangladesh beats a tired top team once, and suddenly it’s a revolution.
• Next week? Fold like an origami set. Blame the pitch, lights, umpires, weather, colonialism, and India — in that order.

Your “balance” is India playing 20 high-pressure games a year while Bangladesh plays 3, wins 1, and makes a documentary about it.


More tournaments won’t fix the imbalance. Better systems, better domestic leagues, and better boards might. Until then, stop calling for tournaments that only exist to give weaker teams a participation medal.

---

4. Reduce Reliance on Indian Audience​

Let’s move games away from Indian prime time. Genius. Let’s also burn down the house because someone’s jealous of the electricity bill.


India is the cricket audience. Remove India and 70% of broadcasters drop out, advertisers vanish, and you’re left with a YouTube stream watched by the host country’s population and their pets.


And let’s be honest — Bangladesh’s audience isn’t tuning in to watch neutral games. They’re foaming at the mouth only when India’s playing. If ICC stopped scheduling India games, even Bangladeshi fans would protest — not to support fairness, but because their TV schedules would be empty.


The argument here is like blaming your neighbor for owning a car while you’re still riding a donkey.

---

5. Governance & Voting Power Reforms​

“Let’s make ICC more democratic!” Cool. Based on what — dreams?


India brings in more money than most of the other boards combined. Why would they get the same vote as a board that can’t even maintain stadium drainage or pay its players on time?


If Bangladesh wants a bigger voice, try beating Afghanistan consistently, then talk. Try running a board without ego fights and suspension threats every six months.


Let’s stop pretending governance is the problem. The real issue is some boards want equal say without equal contribution. That’s not fairness — that’s freeloading.

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6. Invest in New Formats & Innovations​

Yes, yes, we all want cricket in the Olympics. But are you seriously saying India’s the one holding it back? India has supported it. Even the women's IPL took off because of India — not despite it.


Where’s Bangladesh’s innovation? Still stuck between blaming India for every loss and switching captains mid-series. The BCB’s version of innovation is announcing a ban, then unbanning a player in the same press conference.


Olympic inclusion, women’s cricket, tech upgrades — they need structure, not slogans. Right now, Bangladesh Cricket can barely handle its current mess — let’s not hand them anything global to screw up.

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Revenue Sharing & League Models​

Revenue models like UEFA or FIFA? Those work because multiple nations bring equal value. In cricket, only one or two do — and India’s doing most of the heavy lifting.


You want to pool broadcasting rights? Who’s buying Namibia vs Bangladesh media rights for millions without India on the card? No one.
You want performance-based rewards? Fine — that knocks Bangladesh down to the associate tier instantly.


This whole “new model” talk sounds noble. But when boards like Bangladesh can’t build a stadium without controversy, or run a league without ghost payments, the problem isn’t the model. It’s the people misusing it.

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Final Word​

India didn’t hijack cricket. India just showed up — with fans, money, and a working product.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh cricket still acts like it deserves a seat at the grown-up table because of an upset from 2007 and a political agenda dressed up as cricket reform.


The way forward isn’t to “reduce India’s influence.” It’s to earn yours. Fix your board. Pay your players. Build a league that people want to watch. Beat top teams consistently. Until then, stop preaching balance from the bottom of the points table.

Not sure why you are bringing up Bangladesh. LOL.

I don't care whether Bangladesh play cricket or not. I don't watch cricket for BD. I watch cricket because I like this sport. I also used to play league cricket. I have played domestically in Canada.

As a lover of cricket, I want to see more fairness in this sport. It was a fair sport before BCCI destroyed ICC.

 

[Hikaru]

Not sure why you are bringing up Bangladesh. LOL.

I don't care whether Bangladesh play cricket or not. I don't watch cricket for BD. I watch cricket because I like this sport. I also used to play league cricket. I have played domestically in Canada.

As a lover of cricket, I want to see more fairness in this sport. It was a fair sport before BCCI destroyed ICC.

There's more stuff there than just Bangladesh. As a fair and balanced Cricket lover, you will appreciate the counters.

 

[charlie007]

As we know, ICC has become BCCICC. India has become the unofficial controller of ICC.

How can ICC break free? How can ICC ensure more fairness to cricket world?

I asked DeepSeek AI these questions and here were the answers:

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The ICC's dependence on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) stems from India's massive commercial influence in cricket, contributing a significant share of global cricket revenue through broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and fan engagement. To reduce this dependence, the ICC and other cricket boards can take several strategic steps:

1. Diversify Revenue Streams​

• Expand Global Markets: Grow cricket in emerging markets (USA, Europe, Africa, East Asia) through T20 leagues, grassroots programs, and ICC tournaments.
• Maximize Media Rights: Ensure competitive bidding for broadcasting rights in non-traditional markets to reduce reliance on Indian broadcasters.
• Sponsorship Diversity: Attract non-Indian multinational sponsors (e.g., American, European, Middle Eastern brands) for ICC events.

2. Strengthen Other Cricket Boards​

• Financial Model Reforms: Distribute ICC revenue more equitably to help smaller boards (West Indies, Sri Lanka, etc.) become self-sustainable.
• Commercial Independence: Encourage other boards (e.g., ECB, CA, PCB) to develop their own lucrative leagues and bilateral series to balance BCCI's dominance.

3. Promote Competitive Balance​

• More ICC Events: Increase the number of World Cups (T20, ODI, Test) and multi-nation tournaments to shift focus from bilateral series dominated by India.
• Global League Structures: Introduce cross-nation franchise leagues (like ILT20, Major League Cricket) to decentralize cricket's financial hubs.

4. Reduce Reliance on Indian Audience​

• Time-Zone Adjustments: Schedule more high-profile matches in non-Indian prime-time slots to engage audiences in the USA, UK, Australia, etc.
• Digital Engagement: Grow cricket’s social media and streaming presence in non-Indian markets (e.g., Willow TV, ESPN+).

5. Governance & Voting Power Reforms​

• Democratize ICC Decision-Making: Reduce the BCCI's veto power by restructuring ICC governance to prevent single-board dominance.
• Transparent Revenue Sharing: Implement a model where financial distributions reward development and performance, not just market size.

6. Invest in New Formats & Innovations​

• Push for Olympic Inclusion: Cricket in the Olympics (2028+) could unlock government funding and global interest beyond traditional cricket nations.
• Focus on Women’s Cricket: Accelerate growth in women’s cricket, which has untapped commercial potential beyond India.

Challenges​

• BCCI’s Resistance: India may oppose changes that dilute its influence, given its financial contributions.
• Short-Term Revenue Risks: Reducing dependence on India could initially lower income until new markets mature.

Conclusion​

The ICC must adopt a long-term strategy to grow cricket globally while ensuring financial stability. By expanding into new markets, empowering other boards, and restructuring governance, the ICC can gradually reduce its reliance on India without alienating the BCCI.

===================================================

Deep Dive: How ICC Can Reduce Dependence on BCCI Through Revenue Models & League Structures​

The ICC’s financial reliance on India is primarily due to two factors:

1. Broadcasting Revenue – Indian broadcasters (Star Sports, Sony, Jio) contribute ~70-80% of global cricket media rights revenue.
2. Bilateral Series & IPL Dominance – India’s home matches and the IPL generate far more money than other cricketing nations’ events.

To reduce this dependence, the ICC and other boards must restructure revenue distribution and league ecosystems to create alternative income streams.

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1. Reforming ICC Revenue Models​

Current Model (FTP & ICC Distributions)​

• Big Three (BCCI, ECB, CA) get ~38% of ICC revenue (India alone gets ~22-25%).
• Smaller boards (WI, SL, ZIM) depend on ICC handouts and India tours for survival.
• Problem: This centralizes power with India, as other boards can’t survive without playing (and generating revenue from) India.

Alternative Revenue Models to Reduce DCCI Dependence​

A. Equalization Fund Model (Football-Style)​

• How it works:
  • ICC retains a larger % of tournament revenues (e.g., 50%) for equal distribution.
  • Performance-based bonuses (e.g., teams reaching knockouts earn extra).
  • Example: FIFA distributes World Cup revenue more evenly (even smaller nations get significant payouts).
• Pros:
  • Reduces financial disparity.
  • Smaller boards can invest in infrastructure.
• Cons:
  • BCCI may resist reduced shares.
  • Needs strong governance to prevent misuse.

B. Centralized Media Rights Pool (Like UEFA Champions League)​

• How it works:
  • ICC negotiates all bilateral series media rights collectively (instead of individual boards).
  • Revenue split based on viewership contribution + fixed minimums.
• Pros:
  • Prevents India from monopolizing broadcast deals.
  • Guarantees steady income for smaller teams.
• Cons:
  • BCCI/ECB/CA may oppose losing control over their own rights.

C. Non-Indian Market Monetization​

• Strategy:
  • USA/Canada: Push Major League Cricket (MLC) and ICC T20 WC 2024 success.
  • Middle East: Leverage UAE’s ILT20 for Asian expat audiences.
  • Europe: Target UK, Netherlands, Germany via T10/Euro T20.
• Revenue Levers:
  • Sell separate ICC media rights for USA (ESPN+, Willow TV) and Middle East (beIN Sports).
  • Encourage non-Indian sponsors (Amazon, Coca-Cola, Aramco) for global events.

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2. League Structures to Decentralize Financial Power​

Current Problem: IPL Monopoly​

• IPL = 60%+ of global T20 league revenue (~$11B media rights vs. PSL’s $150M).
• Most foreign players prioritize IPL over domestic leagues due to higher pay.

Alternative League Models to Reduce IPL Dominance​

A. Franchise-Based Global League (Like Champions League Football)​

• Concept:
  • "ICC Champions T20 League" – Top 4 teams from IPL, PSL, BBL, CPL, etc., compete in a 6-week annual tournament.
  • Hosted in rotating neutral venues (UAE, USA, UK) to avoid India-centric scheduling.
• Revenue Model:
  • Centralized ICC-controlled broadcasting & sponsorship.
  • Equal revenue sharing among participating leagues.
• Impact:
  • Reduces reliance on IPL for player earnings.
  • Gives PSL, CPL, BBL teams a bigger financial stake.

B. Regional League Partnerships (Like European Cricket League)​

• Example Structures:
  • "Asian Premier League" (India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh combined).
  • "Americas T20 Cup" (USA, West Indies, Canada joint league).
• Benefits:
  • Shared costs & bigger commercial appeal.
  • Prevents BCCI from monopolizing Asian viewership.

C. Salary Cap & Player Distribution Reforms​

• Problem: IPL’s unlimited salaries drain talent from other leagues.
  
  
• Solution:
  • ICC-regulated "soft salary cap" for all T20 leagues (e.g., max $10M squad budget).
  • Player draft quotas (e.g., max 4 overseas players per team, distributed evenly).
• Impact:
  • Stops IPL from hoarding all star players.
  • Makes PSL, BBL, CPL more competitive.

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Challenges & Risks​

1. BCCI Resistance – Any move to reduce India’s financial dominance will face pushback.
2. Short-Term Revenue Dip – New markets (USA, Europe) take time to mature.
3. League Overload – Too many leagues could dilute quality.

Final Verdict​

The ICC must:
✔ Adopt a more equitable revenue-sharing model (FIFA-style).
✔ Create a global franchise league to compete with IPL.
✔ Aggressively monetize non-Indian markets (USA, Middle East).

Without these steps, cricket’s financial ecosystem will remain overwhelmingly dependent on India, leaving the sport vulnerable if the BCCI ever decides to isolate itself (e.g., IPL-only model).

They should buy a Powerball ticket. They have a better chance of winning that and then they can use the proceeds to break BCCI’s monopoly.