The 2025-26 edition of the Vijay Hazare Trophy, India's premier domestic List A cricket tournament, has gained unprecedented attention following the surprise participation of superstars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Representing Delhi and Mumbai, respectively, the two former Indian captains have returned to the domestic fold after a gap of several years, bringing renewed focus to a competition that serves as the cornerstone of white-ball cricket development in the country. Their involvement has not only boosted fan interest but also highlighted the BCCI's emphasis on senior players contributing to state-level cricket, even as they remain central to the national team setup.

Unlike high-stakes events such as the Indian Premier League, where player earnings are determined through auctions and can reach crores of rupees, the Vijay Hazare Trophy operates under a strictly regulated, fixed salary structure. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) categorizes players based solely on their experience in List A matches—the domestic one-day format. The three tiers are Senior (over 40 List A matches), Mid-Level (21 to 40 matches), and Junior (0 to 20 matches). This system ensures parity across participants, regardless of international stature, fame, or market value.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both with hundreds of List A appearances accumulated over nearly two decades of domestic and international cricket, fall comfortably into the senior category. As a result, they are entitled to the same compensation as any other domestic veteran player: Rs 60,000 per match if selected in the playing XI and Rs 30,000 per match if kept in the reserves. This modest sum stands in stark contrast to their earnings from international ODIs, where each receives Rs 6 lakh per game under their BCCI central contracts, underscoring the difference between domestic and international cricket economics.

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Beyond the base match fees, players in the Vijay Hazare Trophy can supplement their income through additional avenues. Daily allowances are provided to cover travel, food, and accommodation during the multi-week tournament. Performance incentives, such as Rs 10,000 for Man of the Match awards, offer further rewards, while teams that progress to the knockout stages and the final share in a substantial prize pool that is distributed among players and support staff. These extras provide motivation for all participants, including the two icons, to perform at their best despite the comparatively low fixed pay.

The participation of Kohli and Rohit in the Vijay Hazare Trophy carries symbolic and developmental significance far beyond finances. Their presence allows them to stay match-sharp in white-ball cricket, mentor younger teammates, and contribute to the growth of domestic structures that have long been the breeding ground for Indian talent. By accepting the same pay scale as other senior players, they reinforce the principle of equality within the domestic ecosystem. As the tournament unfolds, their performances are expected to inspire the next generation while reminding fans of the enduring value of grassroots cricket in India's cricketing journey.

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