Queensland Rejects Cricket Australia’s BBL Privatisation Plan
Cricket Australia’s plans to push ahead with privatising the Big Bash League (BBL) have hit another hurdle with Queensland joining New South Wales in rejecting the proposal to sell stakes of the eight BBL clubs to private investors.
Background
NSW, who control Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder, had been firmly against the privatisation model that was presented by CA to the six state chief executives at a meeting in Melbourne in late March. Queensland, who operate Brisbane Heat, had initially asked for more time and clarity on a number of points in the proposal following a Queensland Cricket board meeting a fortnight ago.
Following discussions with CA, Queensland has decided to join NSW in rejecting the proposal entirely. This leaves CA with only four states, Victoria, Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania, who between them run the other five BBL clubs, in favour of proceeding with moving to the next step of privatisation, which involves getting official valuations for the clubs.
Potential Financial Implications
It has previously been estimated that full privatisation of the BBL could bring in AU$600-800 million. However, with two major states now opposing the plan, the future of the proposal remains uncertain.
Queensland’s decision to reject the proposal is a significant blow to Cricket Australia’s plans, and it will be interesting to see how the organisation responds to this setback. More to come
