Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg has hinted that the Big Bash League could one day cross the Tasman, saying the governing body is keeping an “open mind” about adding a New Zealand team to the competition.
Speaking on SENQ Breakfast, Greenberg confirmed that the idea of expansion was one of several recommendations made by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) in a report on the future of the BBL.
The consultancy’s findings also suggested opening the league to private investment and tweaking its scheduling to sustain fan interest better.
New Zealand, Singapore floated as possible markets
While discussions remain in the early stages, New Zealand Cricket has reportedly begun its own assessment of the feasibility of entering the BBL, with other potential destinations, such as Singapore or Geelong, also being floated as part of broader reform talks.
“We’ve certainly got an open mind to it,” Greenberg said. “We’re talking to all our state CEOs about how we best optimise the Big Bash and at the same time secure the game’s long-term future. I think it would be remiss of us if we weren’t looking at these opportunities presented by private investment.
“That’s not to say we’ve made a decision yet. But certainly, expanding the competition and markets like New Zealand are top of mind.”
Greenberg added that the next few months would be key in deciding the BBL’s direction, noting that “over the next three to six months, I think we are going to see some work on that and make some decisions.”
The upcoming BBL season, its 15th edition, kicks off on December 14 with the Perth Scorchers taking on the Sydney Sixers.