Cricket ACT's ambitious bid to secure a Big Bash League franchise for Canberra has been put on hold as Cricket Australia deliberates over a major privatisation strategy that could reshape the competition's future.
Privatisation Puts Expansion Plans in Limbo
The governing body is considering two significant changes: expanding the BBL from eight to ten teams, and selling 49-per-cent shares in existing clubs to private investors. This dual approach has created uncertainty for Canberra's bid, despite strong local support and a $3 million pledge from the ACT government.
Cricket ACT chief executive Olivia Thornton confirmed the organisation has submitted its bid but must now wait for Cricket Australia to complete its due diligence on the privatisation model. "We've got our bid in. They know exactly where we stand," Thornton stated, while expressing support for the thorough approach being taken.
The proposed privatisation represents a fundamental shift for Australian cricket, with Thornton describing it as "a massive decision for Australian cricket to make" and "a very once-in-a-generation opportunity for us to decide as a sport what we do."
England Lions Dominate PM's XI Match
Meanwhile, Manuka Oval hosted the Prime Minister's XI match over the weekend, where the England Lions claimed a comprehensive victory over the Australian side. The visitors comfortably chased down the PM's XI total of 8-308 declared, losing only two wickets in the process.
James Rew led the charge for the Lions with an unbeaten 92, falling just short of a century, while captain Tom Haines contributed 77 before being dismissed LBW. Opener Emilio Gay looked set for a big score before retiring hurt on 56 with a hamstring injury.
The match was notable for the controversial absence of most England Ashes squad members, with only three Test players making the trip to Canberra to join the second-string Lions team.
Ashes Bolters Emerge from Canberra Contest
The PM's XI match served as an important audition for several players with international aspirations. Victorian opener Campbell Kellaway enhanced his credentials as a potential long-term replacement for veteran Australian batsman Usman Khawaja with a classy 82.
Kellaway's performance followed the pattern set last year when Sam Konstas used the PM's XI match as a springboard to Test selection. The 23-year-old Victorian acknowledged the opportunity, stating: "It's nice that the selectors have given me an opportunity to play my first PM's XI game and I'm just trying to put my best foot forward."
For England, quick Josh Tongue appears likely to replace the injured Mark Wood in the second Ashes Test in Brisbane after Wood was ruled out with knee soreness. Tongue bowled with good pace at Manuka without taking a wicket, while fellow Ashes squad member Matt Potts claimed 2-40.
Canberra's Campbell Thompson made an impression with the ball for the PM's XI, claiming the wicket of England's Jacob Bethell for 16.
The Sydney Thunder will return to Manuka Oval for BBL action on December 22 against the Brisbane Heat, followed by a clash with the Melbourne Stars on December 28, giving local fans a glimpse of what a dedicated Canberra team might offer in future seasons.
