India will pocket $14-million (around R228-million) from the BCCI after lifting the T20 World Cup for a record third time.
The co‑hosts and pre‑tournament favourites swept aside New Zealand by 96 runs in Sunday’s final in Ahmedabad to become the first team to retain the trophy and the first to win it on home soil.
Cricket commands an unrivalled following in the world’s most populous country, with top players enjoying star status and the game serving as a rare unifying force in an otherwise diverse nation.
MORE: India hails its ‘T20 kings’
The BCCI, the world’s richest and most powerful cricket body, praised the players, support staff and selectors for the “historic achievement” as it announced the cash reward.
The victory cemented India’s place “among the most successful teams in the history of the format”, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said in a statement.
The prize money will be shared among the entire team, including coaches and support staff.
The Indian team will separately receive $2.34-million (R38-million) from the ICC while runners-up New Zealand will earn $1.17-million (R19-million).
Midnight celebrations broke out across the country on Sunday as delirious fans in blue Indian shirts took to the streets, beating drums and dancing to Bollywood hits.
– AFP
Photo: Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images
