Cricket NSW Warns BBL Privatisation Could Hurt Australian Cricket

Cricket NSW has strongly criticised Cricket Australia’s decision to move ahead with private investment in the Big Bash League, warning that the move could have serious long-term consequences for cricket across the country.

NSW, which operates the Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder, has been the most vocal opponent of the proposed privatisation. The state believes selling stakes in BBL clubs could reduce the funding available for grassroots and community cricket, while also creating financial and strategic risks for the wider game.

Cricket Australia announced on Tuesday that its board had approved a “self-determination” model, allowing individual states to decide whether and how they pursue private investment in their BBL clubs. NSW, however, said the decision was made without sufficient agreement across Australian cricket.

“Cricket NSW is disappointed by Cricket Australia's decision to proceed with introducing private investment into the Big Bash Leagues without alignment across Australian cricket,” the state body said.

NSW also highlighted the success of the Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder, describing both clubs as financially healthy and successful while stressing that their profits are reinvested into growing participation in cricket.

Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg defended the decision, saying private investment could deliver significant long-term benefits. He said a large portion of the proceeds from potential club licence sales could be placed into a future fund to support grassroots cricket, elite pathways and high-performance programmes for generations.

The proposed privatisation plan has divided the states. Victoria, Tasmania and Western Australia are broadly supportive, although only Cricket Victoria has fully backed the current process and plans to sell the Melbourne Renegades outright.

Queensland has expressed concerns about the structure and distribution of funds but currently intends to retain full ownership of the Brisbane Heat. South Australia has taken a more cautious position after previously pushing for the self-determination model.

The Australian Cricketers’ Association has also raised concerns, with player agreement on a new payment model still required before any privatisation can proceed.

With the states holding differing views, Cricket Australia now faces the challenge of finding a model that can attract private investment while protecting the financial interests and long-term development of Australian cricket.