Cricket Australia Considers Selling Minority Stakes in Big Bash League Teams

Cricket Australia (CA) is considering a major transformation of the Big Bash League (BBL) following an independent report by Boston Consulting Group, which recommends selling minority stakes in the eight BBL teams. This move would allow the league to attract private investment, raise player salaries, and bolster grassroots cricket funding, potentially marking the most revolutionary change since Kerry Packer's World Series Cricket in 1977. The recommendation comes as English cricket recently raised approximately $2 billion by selling 49% stakes in The Hundred teams, highlighting growing investor interest in franchise cricket. While the BBL currently remains fully owned by CA and the states, private ownership could bring new business acumen and networks, although it also raises scheduling challenges since private owners prefer the BBL to have a distinct window separate from the home Test season, which broadcasters currently favor. Additionally, the report suggests launching the BBL season over Christmas and New Year to maximize player availability and fan engagement, though no final decisions have been made. CA is also exploring potential team relocations and a higher salary cap to maintain competitiveness, but any changes will undergo thorough consideration before implementation.