Last Updated: September 9, 2026 01:10 PM
Cricket governance decisions rarely please every stakeholder involved equally. A major ownership dispute has now emerged within Australian cricket circles. Here is the complete picture behind this developing controversy.
Big Bash League Privatization Triggers Major State Disagreement
Cricket Australia approved a new self-determination model for the Big Bash League recently. This allows each state to decide its own private investment approach independently.
This move toward Big Bash League privatization has faced strong opposition from Cricket New South Wales. NSW currently controls both the Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder franchises.
NSW has rejected private investment for both of its BBL clubs firmly. It criticized CA for proceeding without full agreement across Australian cricket bodies.
“We are proud to be part of an Australian cricket system that is the envy of the world. Yesterday’s announcement threatens this system. The redistribution of profits to external investors reduces our ability to invest in community cricket, creating long-term impacts at all levels.
“The Cricket NSW Board is also disappointed by the process leading to this decision. We have raised concerns directly with Cricket Australia, proposed an alternative pathway to strengthen the Big Bash, and highlighted significant risks within the proposal, informed by high-quality external advice.” The state body stated.
Why the CA and NSW Dispute Escalated Quickly
NSW argues selling club stakes could redirect profits away from Australian cricket entirely. This could reduce funding available for grassroots and community cricket programs.
The NSW board also questioned CA’s financial calculations behind this entire proposal. It proposed an alternative approach for strengthening the Big Bash League instead.
This CA and NSW dispute gained extra attention due to Mike Baird’s background. Baird currently chairs CA but previously served on the NSW board. Prominent NSW-linked players like Ellyse Perry from the Sydney Sixers and Pat Cummins, a former Thunder player, were also mentioned.
CA Defends Its Position on Big Bash League Privatization
CA CEO Todd Greenberg defended this plan, calling it beneficial long-term overall. He said proceeds from selling club licences would enter a future fund.
“CA strongly believes private investment in the Big Bash will bring long-term benefits, with funds from club licence sales supporting grassroots cricket, elite pathways, and high-performance programs. CA shares CNSW’s pride in Australian cricket and will continue working with all states and players to protect the game’s best interests,” Greenberg said.
This funding would support grassroots cricket, player pathways and high-performance programs directly. Greenberg stressed CA would continue working with states to protect shared interests.
How Other States View This Ownership Debate
Victoria, Tasmania and Western Australia broadly support this new private investment approach. Cricket Victoria fully backs the process and plans selling the Melbourne Renegades entirely.
Queensland Cricket remains open but has concerns about proceeds distribution overall. It currently plans to retain full ownership of the Brisbane Heat franchise though.
South Australia supported creating this model but stayed relatively neutral overall. This dispute highlights competing visions for funding Australian cricket’s long-term future. The BBL now faces important decisions about its ownership structure ahead.
