What is a Cricket ID Number? Complete Guide for Indian Players
If you are an aspiring cricketer in India, you have likely heard the term “Cricket ID Number” thrown around. Whether you are trying to join a state-level team, participate in BCCI tournaments, or understand how the IPL player database works, knowing what a Cricket ID Number is — and why it matters — is essential.
This guide explains everything you need to know.
What is a Cricket ID Number?
A Cricket ID Number is a unique registration identifier issued to cricketers in India by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) or one of its affiliated state cricket associations.
Think of it as your official “cricket passport” — a permanent number that stays with you throughout your cricketing career in India, from junior levels all the way up to senior national selection pools.
Every player registered with the BCCI system receives a unique number. This number is stored in the BCCI’s centralised player database and is used to:
- Track player performance across tournaments
- Verify eligibility for specific competitions
- Manage player contracts and appearances
- Maintain official records for selection committees
Why Do You Need a Cricket ID Number?
A Cricket ID Number is mandatory for anyone who wants to play officially recognised cricket in India. Without it, you cannot:
- Participate in BCCI-affiliated domestic tournaments (Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy)
- Play in state selection trials
- Register for IPL player auctions or trials
- Compete in junior national competitions (Under-14, Under-16, Under-19)
- Represent your school or district in officially affiliated leagues
Who Issues Cricket ID Numbers?
Cricket ID Numbers are issued at two levels:
BCCI (National Level)
The Board of Control for Cricket in India maintains the central player database. National-level IDs are required for players participating in senior domestic tournaments.
State Cricket Associations (State Level)
Each of India’s 30 state cricket associations (such as Mumbai Cricket Association, Tamil Nadu Cricket Association, etc.) has its own registration system. Your state association issues your initial ID, which is then linked to the BCCI’s national database.
Cricket ID Number vs. IPL Player ID
These two are often confused, but they are different:
| Cricket ID Number | IPL Player ID |
|---|---|
| Issued by BCCI / State Associations | Issued by IPL governing body |
| Required for all domestic cricket | Specific to IPL ecosystem |
| Permanent registration number | Assigned during IPL registration |
| Used across all BCCI tournaments | Used for IPL auctions and records |
Both numbers exist in the BCCI’s broader database, but they serve different purposes.
How is the Cricket ID Number Used?
Once you have a Cricket ID Number, it is used every time you:
- Submit match scorecards: Your ID links your performance data to your official record
- File for selection: State selectors look up your ID to review your stats
- Sign player contracts: All official cricket contracts reference your ID
- Travel for tournaments: It serves as identity verification in cricket administration
How Long Does a Cricket ID Number Last?
Your Cricket ID Number is permanent. Once issued, it stays assigned to you for life — even if you stop playing and return to cricket years later. It does not expire.
Can You Have Multiple Cricket ID Numbers?
No. Each player can only have one Cricket ID Number. Having duplicate registrations is a violation of BCCI rules and can result in disqualification from tournaments. If you believe you have been issued two numbers, contact your state cricket association immediately to have duplicates resolved.
Summary
A Cricket ID Number is your official identity in India’s cricket system. It is:
- Unique — no two players share the same number
- Permanent — it stays with you for life
- Required — mandatory for official tournament participation
- Issued by — BCCI or your state cricket association
Ready to get yours? Read our step-by-step guide on how to get your online cricket ID.