Biggest revolution since Packer: Cricket Australia told to sell off BBL clubs after $2 billion England windfall

Cricket Australia is considering selling minority stakes in the eight Big Bash League (BBL) clubs, following a recommendation from an independent Boston Consulting Group (BCG) report. This move would mirror England's recent sale of stakes in The Hundred, which raised $2 billion, and could represent a revolutionary shift similar to Kerry Packer's World Series Cricket in 1977.

Currently, the BBL is wholly owned by Cricket Australia and the states, unlike other major franchise leagues (like the IPL, SA T20, and IL T20) owned by private entities. A key factor preventing private ownership previously has been the BBL's scheduling alongside the home Test season, preferred by broadcasters Seven and Foxtel. Private owners would likely demand a dedicated window to ensure Australian Test stars can participate, necessitating a summer schedule overhaul.

The BCG review, presented confidentially to CA chair Mike Baird and state chairs, acknowledged the BBL's current health but recommended exploring stake sales to capitalize on significant global business interest in franchise leagues. The capital raised would be used to increase player salaries, making the BBL more competitive in attracting top international talent who have been drawn to higher-paying leagues, and to fund grassroots cricket.

This would mark a departure from decades of CA and state control. While private investment was briefly considered at the BBL's inception in 2011, CA has remained devoid of private ownership since the resolution of the World Series Cricket split. The level of market interest was demonstrated by the ECB's successful $2 billion raise from selling 49% stakes in The Hundred teams.

The BCG report also advised against expanding the number of BBL clubs before selling stakes in the existing teams, arguing expansion would dilute their value. Although CA's board meets soon, a final decision on the recommendations is expected later in the year as chair Mike Baird and CEO Todd Greenberg seek consensus.