Photograph: Richard Wainwright/AAP

Cricket in Australia set for dramatic shake-up after BBL privatisation plan approved

September 9, 2026 · The Guardian

Australian cricket is on the brink of a major transformation following the green light given to introduce private ownership into the Big Bash League. The Melbourne Renegades have already been put on the market, kick-starting the divestment process across the competition. Cricket Australia contends that welcoming external equity into the tournament will safeguard the nationwide game over the long haul.

The strategic shift overcomes intense previous resistance mounted by state governing bodies in Queensland and New South Wales. It also follows a contentious push by Cricket Victoria several months earlier to consolidate the Renegades with the cross-town Melbourne Stars.

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