Cricket ACT's ambitious bid to bring a professional Big Bash League team to the nation's capital has reached a critical decision point, with the governing body considering both expansion and partial privatisation of the competition.
The Expansion Dilemma
Cricket Australia is currently evaluating proposals to expand the BBL from eight teams to ten, with Canberra and Auckland emerging as frontrunners for the new franchises. The ACT government has already committed $3 million in funding to support a team based in the capital, demonstrating significant local backing for the initiative.
Cricket ACT chief executive Olivia Thornton confirmed the organisation has submitted its formal bid and is now awaiting Cricket Australia's decision on the competition's future structure. "We've got our bid in. They know exactly where we stand," Thornton stated, expressing confidence in the thorough evaluation process underway.
Privatisation Complications
The expansion consideration comes alongside Cricket Australia's exploration of selling 49-per-cent shares in existing teams to private investors. This dual approach aims to both raise capital and attract top international talent to reinvigorate the competition.
Thornton acknowledged the complexity of the decision, describing it as "a massive decision for Australian cricket to make" and welcoming the careful due diligence being conducted. "It's a very once-in-a-generation opportunity for us to decide as a sport what we do," she emphasised.
One significant challenge involves determining how privatisation would affect Cricket Victoria and Cricket NSW, both of which currently operate two teams within the competition.
Manuka Oval's Growing Role
Canberra's historic Manuka Oval continues to strengthen its case as a premier cricket venue. The ground currently hosts Sydney Thunder BBL matches and played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic by accommodating numerous fixtures when other venues faced restrictions.
The venue recently hosted the Prime Minister's XI match against England Lions, though the occasion was somewhat overshadowed by controversy as the full England Ashes squad sent only three players to participate.
Despite this, the match provided valuable insights into future Australian talent, with Victorian opener Campbell Kellaway scoring an impressive 82 runs that may have caught selectors' attention as they consider long-term replacements for veteran batsman Usman Khawaja.
Manuka Oval's next BBL action will see the Sydney Thunder take on the Brisbane Heat on December 22, followed by a clash with the Melbourne Stars on December 28.
Cricket ACT chairman Greg Boorer remains the driving force behind the capital's bid, leveraging Canberra's proven capacity to support elite cricket and the strong financial commitment from local government.
