NGAWANG JAMPHEL
Thimphu
The Bhutan Cricket Council Board (BCCB) has unveiled the Player Grading Contract System (PGCS), a groundbreaking initiative designed to offer financial security, career stability, and performance-based incentives for national cricketers.
This move represents a significant leap forward for Bhutanese cricket, providing systematic support for players while boosting the country’s competitiveness on the international stage.
The PGCS, which categorizes 26 players into five distinct grades—Grade A, Grade B, Grade C, Special Contract, and Emerging Contract—marks a shift in how cricket talent is nurtured and supported in Bhutan.
Damber S Gurung, the CEO of BCCB, emphasized the importance of the new system, stating, “The introduction of the Player Grading Contract System is a transformative step for Bhutanese cricket. It not only provides financial stability for our players but also ensures that they can fully commit to improving their game, ultimately elevating Bhutan’s performance on the international stage.”
Under the new system, the BCCB has awarded the Special Contract to four elite players—two male and two female—who will receive the highest support. Additionally, 15 male and 11 female cricketers have been signed to other contract grades, with three female slots still vacant.
The Emerging Contract is focused on nurturing the next generation of cricketers, with four boys and four girls under the age of 15 enrolled in the program. This initiative ensures that players at all stages of their careers have a clear, structured pathway for development within Bhutanese cricket.
The introduction of the PGCS is expected to address several long-standing challenges in Bhutanese cricket. Traditionally, many players have struggled with financial instability, a lack of structured player development, and challenges retaining top talent.
The new grading system, which is based on player performance in domestic and international tournaments, aims to overcome these issues by offering players a clear incentive to improve and a steady income that will allow them to dedicate themselves fully to the sport.
Damber S Gurung explained, “By implementing this structured contract system, we are creating a clear pathway for both senior and emerging players. This initiative will inspire young athletes to take up cricket seriously, strengthening our national team and securing the future of the sport in Bhutan.”
This sentiment reflects the BCCB’s long-term vision to not only professionalize the sport but also build a sustainable cricketing ecosystem in the country.
One of the most significant aspects of the PGCS is its emphasis on both financial stability and performance-based incentives. For the first time, Bhutanese cricketers will receive a steady income, allowing them to focus entirely on training and match preparation. This is a major step forward, as it removes the financial burden that has traditionally required cricketers to seek alternative employment.
In addition to a guaranteed income, the new system also includes performance bonuses that will be awarded based on various factors such as batting and bowling averages, strike rates, fitness levels, and overall commitment to training. This focus on rewarding excellence is designed to foster a culture of competitiveness and high performance, motivating players to continually improve.
The grading system itself is structured to be transparent and merit-based, with evaluations grounded in objective criteria. Players will be assessed based on their match statistics, fitness tests, and their overall discipline and potential for growth. Those who disagree with their assigned grading will have access to a formal review and appeal process, ensuring that the system remains fair and transparent.
As part of its broader strategy, the BCCB is also investing in infrastructure and resources to enhance the overall quality of cricket in Bhutan. The PGCS is just one piece of a larger vision that includes improving youth development programs, upgrading training facilities, and increasing international exposure for players.
The BCCB is also working towards establishing a domestic professional league and investing in coaching and umpiring education, all of which will contribute to the overall growth of the sport.
This commitment to player development is a key factor in positioning Bhutan as a serious contender in regional and international cricket tournaments. In addition to providing financial stability and structured support for cricketers, the PGCS aims to build a team that is not only talented but also experienced, with exposure to a variety of international competition.
With these reforms in place, the PGCS is expected to strengthen Bhutan’s national cricket team and generate greater interest in the sport across the country.
As the BCCB continues to invest in its athletes and infrastructure, it is laying the foundation for a stronger, more competitive cricketing environment that will benefit future generations of players.
The launch of the PGCS signals a new era for Bhutanese cricket. It marks a decisive step towards professionalizing the sport and creating a more sustainable career path for players.
The PGCS is poised to enhance Bhutan’s standing in international cricket while inspiring more young athletes to take up the sport seriously. With these positive developments, Bhutanese cricket is set for a brighter and more competitive future, ensuring that the sport will continue to thrive in the years to come.
