Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The International Cricket Council announced a bumper hike in the prize money for this year's women's 50-over World Cup, making it financially more lucrative than the 2023 edition of the men's event held in India.
The winner's purse of NZ$7.59 million is significantly higher than the $2.23 million awarded to Australia when they won the 2022 World Cup in New Zealand and exceeds the $6.78 million their men's team pocketed after lifting the 2023 World Cup in India.
"This four-fold increase in prize money is a landmark moment for women's cricket and reflects our clear commitment to its long-term growth," ICC chairman Jay Shah said in a statement.
"Our message is simple, women cricketers must know they will be treated on par with men if they choose this sport professionally.
"Women's cricket is on a remarkable upward trajectory, and with this step we are confident the momentum will accelerate."
The overall tournament prize money of $23.52 million is a considerable jump from the $5.93 million in 2022 and eclipses the $16.95 million at the 2023 men's World Cup.
Each of the eight participating teams is guaranteed $424,000.
The 13th edition of the women's World Cup will kick off with an India v Sri Lanka clash in the eastern Indian city of Guwahati on 30 September.
The tournament, which culminates with the final on 2 November, will be played across five venues in India, while Pakistan will play their matches in Colombo.
- Reuters
