Ashneer Grover has sparked a controversy with his tweet suggesting that the BCCI should increase the ticket prices for cricket matches in India. He argued that the demand for cricket is high and the supply is low, and that the BCCI should use dynamic pricing to maximize its revenue. He also claimed that this would make cricket more aspirational and exclusive.
However, his idea is not only sinister but also shortsighted. He fails to understand that cricket is not a luxury product but a mass sport that millions of Indians love and follow passionately. Cricket is not accessible because it is cheap, but because it is popular and inclusive.
Increasing the ticket prices would alienate the majority of the fans who cannot afford to pay exorbitant amounts to watch their favorite players and teams. It would also reduce the diversity and vibrancy of the crowds that create the atmosphere and excitement in the stadiums.
The BCCI is rich not because it exploits its fans, but because it invests in them. It supports the development of cricket at all levels, from grassroots to international. It also shares its revenue with other cricket boards and contributes to the growth of the game globally.
The BCCI should not succumb to the greed and elitism of people like Ashneer Grover, who want to turn cricket into a niche and exclusive sport for the wealthy few. Cricket belongs to everyone, and everyone deserves to enjoy it.
