Published – 07 Sep 2026, 05:29 PM
Australian cricket is set for one of its biggest changes in decades, with the Big Bash League (BBL) moving towards partial privatisation. Cricket Australia (CA) is ready to allow state associations to sell up to 49 per cent stakes in their Big Bash League teams.
The big and bold decision was taken at a Cricket Australia (CA) board meeting last week and is expected to get official approval on Monday (September 7) night. A formal announcement is likely on Tuesday, with some of Australia’s biggest cricket stars also expected to be involved.
Cricket Australia opens door for investors to buy 49% stakes
As Cricket Australia is ready for partial privatisation, the plan will allow states to start finding potential buyers for up to 49 per cent of their Big Bash League franchises. Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia supported the move, while South Australia is open to the idea.
However, powerful cricket states New South Wales and Queensland are against the privatisation. NSW has reportedly felt that private investment could give only a short-term financial boost and that bigger structural changes are needed to improve Cricket Australia’s long-term financial position. Amid this, Kevin Pietersen appointed England’s specialist white-ball mentor.
Cricket Australia believes that private investment can help the BBL compete with major T20 leagues around the world. The money earned from the sales is also expected to be shared across the wider Australian cricket system, as reported by Australia’s ABC Cricket.
Players still negotiating with Cricket Australia
The Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) has shown support for privatisation, but only if the long-term future of Australian cricket remains protected.
The players’ union is still discussing several important issues with Cricket Australia, including how much revenue should go to the players.
These matters will be included in a new memorandum of understanding between Cricket Australia and the players’ association. Amid this, AB de Villiers identifies lack of character behind Pakistan’s downfall.
Investors from India and UK already being approached
The process is likely to start soon, with some deals potentially being completed before the start of the next BBL 2026-27 season.
International investors are expected to be approached during the upcoming Australian summer, and possible buyers could visit Australia to watch the upcoming BBL 2026-27.
The privatisation process gained speed in June when Cricket Victoria made an early move to sell the Melbourne Renegades while keeping control of the Melbourne Stars licence.
Several state cricket CEOs have also travelled to India and the UK recently to meet possible investors. They are now waiting for formal approval from Cricket Australia to begin the sale process.
The move could completely change the business structure of the BBL and bring private ownership into Australian domestic cricket on a much bigger scale.
Private investment in BBL is ‘Inevitable’: CA CEO
Recently, CA CEO Todd Greenberg said on the ABC Cricket Podcast about the BBL privatisation: “This might feel new in our country, bringing private capital into sports, but it’s certainly not new globally. The concept of bringing private capital to cricket is inevitable at some point.”
Greenberg added, “The question will remain about when that actually happens. My view is it will happen. What we have to make sure is the levels of control are in place and you’re not just taking the biggest cheque; you’re looking for the right partner.”
Big Bash LeagueCricket AustraliaDomestic CricketAustralia National Cricket TeamBBL
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