Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg has dismissed concerns that private investment in the Big Bash League (BBL) could place the tournament under the influence of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise owners.
The proposed privatisation plan for the BBL has stalled after Cricket Australia failed to secure consensus among state associations. New South Wales rejected the proposal, while Queensland delayed its decision.
Concerns have arisen over the expanding presence of the IPL franchise owners, who already own or hold stakes in teams competing in T20 leagues across England, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates and the West Indies.
Speaking to SEN Radio on Monday, Greenberg said such fears were exaggerated.
“India is a major part of world cricket, but we are not looking to sell the game to India,” he said.
“We are seeking to add value to our clubs and bring in suitable partners, while the states will retain the authority to choose those partners.”
Cricket Australia had hoped to raise as much as $427 million through the proposal in an effort to strengthen the sport financially and improve Australia’s standing in T20 cricket.
Greenberg said Australian cricket should remain open to Indian investment opportunities.
“Businesses and government agencies are eager to strengthen trade, diplomacy and commercial ties with India,” he said.
“In some areas of the BBL, there may also be room for such partnerships, though not across the entire competition.”
He added that Cricket Australia was examining whether some BBL teams could operate with private ownership while others continued under the traditional structure.
“I think that is possible, but the work must be completed first,” Greenberg said.
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