Cricket Australia (CA) has approved the introduction of private investment into the Big Bash League (BBL), with the Melbourne Renegades set to become the first franchise to be offered for sale.
CA confirmed on Tuesday that it would begin inviting bids for a 100 per cent stake in the licence currently held by the Melbourne Renegades.
The new ownership is expected to be in place for the 2027-28 and Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) seasons.
“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.
“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,” Cricket Australia chairman Mike Baird said via a statement.
“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,” he added.
The decision follows months of discussions between CA and Australia’s six state cricket associations over a model for introducing private capital into the country’s domestic T20 competitions.
Melbourne Renegades will continue to operate under Cricket Australia’s caretaker management for the upcoming 2026-27 season. The sale process will not affect the team’s participation in the next and seasons.
The licence being offered represents the right to operate both the men’s BBL and women’s WBBL teams. A future owner could seek changes to the team’s name, colours or other elements of its branding, but such changes would require approval under the applicable governance arrangements.
Cricket Australia will retain control over several key areas of the competitions. These include international scheduling, player availability, salary caps and media rights. CA will also have the authority to approve or veto potential investors and will determine the reserve price for the Renegades licence.
According to cricket.com.au, Perth Scorchers, Melbourne Stars and Hobart Hurricanes are interested in private investment, whereas Sydney Thunder, Sydney Sixers, Adelaide Strikers and Brisbane Heat are reluctant at the moment. These teams, however, would be open to private investment in the future.
For the first time ever, a match of the BBL will be held outside Australia when Melbourne Renegades take on Perth Scorchers in the 2026-27 season opener in Chennai on 12 December.
The WBBL, though, will have its season opener in Australia itself with Melbourne Renegades taking on Sydney Thunder in Melbourne on 29 October.
