Cricket Australia (CA) has approved a privatisation model for the Big Bash League (BBL) and the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL), with the Melbourne Renegades set to become the first club offered to private investors, cricket.com.au reported.
CA will invite bids for a 100 per cent stake in the Renegades, aiming to complete the sale before the new ownership takes charge in the 2027-28 BBL and WBBL seasons. The privatisation process will not affect the upcoming domestic season, as CA will operate the Renegades in caretaker mode during the 2026-27 campaigns. The club will continue to compete under its existing identity and has recently signed West Indies star Hayley Matthews for the forthcoming WBBL season.
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Following the Renegades sale, CA plans to consider offering other Big Bash clubs for private investment under a “self-determination” model. This framework allows each state association to decide independently whether and when to pursue private investment.
The Hobart Hurricanes, Melbourne Stars and Perth Scorchers
The Hobart Hurricanes, Melbourne Stars and Perth Scorchers are reportedly interested in introducing private investors, while the Sydney Sixers, Sydney Thunder, Brisbane Heat and Adelaide Strikers are currently not pursuing this option.
CA will retain control over key competition aspects, including international scheduling, player availability, salary caps and media rights. The governing body will also have the authority to approve or veto potential investors and set the reserve price for the Renegades licence. Any changes to the Renegades’ name, colours or branding after the sale will require CA approval.
“Cricket Australia and its State members are united in our commitment to investing in and growing the BBL and WBBL, and to advancing the interests of cricket at every level,” CA chair Mike Baird said, according to cricket.com.au.
He added, By opening the door to private
He added, “By opening the door to private investment in the Big Bash Leagues, Cricket Australia is taking a deliberate step to strengthen and secure the long-term future of the game, accelerate growth and ensuring we can keep investing in community cricket and grassroots participation, domestic and international pathways and the elite level.”
CA will continue discussions with state associations and the Australian Cricketers’ Association during the Renegades sale process, emphasising finding the right investment partner rather than simply accepting the highest bid.
This move follows CA’s original timeline for introducing private ownership, with the Renegades expected to be under new ownership by the 2027-28 season.
The current BBL and WBBL seasons will proceed with clubs in their existing forms. WBBL 12 starts on October 29, with the Renegades hosting the Sydney Thunder, while BBL 16 begins on December 12, with the Renegades playing the Perth Scorchers in Chennai.
Source: thenewsmill.com
