Up for sale: CA puts Renegades forward for BBL privatisation push

Cricket Australia’s push for private investment in the Big Bash League has begun with the governing body confirming that the process to sell the Melbourne Renegades to private investment has started.

With Queensland and New South Wales initially scuppering the bid for privatisation in the domestic T20 competition in April, CA will adopt a ‘self-determination’ model allowing states that are interested in going through the process. This means they no longer need unanimous.  

Speaking on the announcement, CA Chair and former NSW Premier Mike Baird believes private investment can help strengthen the future of the sport within Australia.

“Cricket Australia and its State members are united in our commitment to investing in and growing the BBL and WBBL, and to advancing the interests of cricket at every level,” Baird said.

“By opening the door to private investment in the Big Bash Leagues, Cricket Australia is taking a deliberate step to strengthen and secure the long-term future of the game, accelerate growth and ensuring we can keep investing in community cricket and grassroots participation, domestic and international pathways and the elite level.

“Beginning the sales process for the Renegades allows us to take the first step in a self-determination model for our members and represents a defining moment for the game.

“Importantly, CA and its members will maintain control over the most significant aspects of Australian Cricket operations, including international scheduling, player availability, the Big Bash Leagues salary caps, branding proposals as well as the reserve price for a licence to operate that must be achieved, and approval of investors.

“This is a significant decision that has involved an enormous amount of analysis, discussion and collaboration over many months. I’d like to thank all involved as we move to what we believe is the best way to secure cricket’s future in this country, strengthen the Big Bash and protect our standing on the global stage.”

CA is hopeful the Melbourne-based franchise is being run by new ownership for the 2027-28 season (BBL|17).

The Renegades are set to play in the Big Bash League’s first overseas game to begin the 16th edition of the league against the Perth Scorchers in Chennai on December 12.