The BCCI on Saturday announced a "Test cricket incentive scheme" aimed to promote red-ball cricket. Having already cracked the whip on players who refuse to play the longer format, this incentive will increase the match fees by several notches.

"This initiative aligns with our vision of promoting Test cricket," Board president Roger Binny said.

Players featuring in 50-75 per cent of Tests in a season will stand to earn Rs 30 lakh per Test (in addition to match fees of Rs 15 lakh). Those playing more than 75 per cent of Tests will earn Rs 45 lakh per Test plus the match fees. The non-playing XI members will earn Rs 15 lakh and Rs 22.5 lakh in both the categories.

This will be in addition to the annual retainership.

Rahul Dravid praised the effort. "It is nice that the BCCI is recognising Tests... I think it is a reward, not an incentive," he said. The head coach also called for an "all-round review" of the cramped domestic schedule stressing the need to "hear the players".