Next summer may see Gold Coast, Canberra, Newcastle, and Geelong vie for a spot in the Big Bash League as the revitalized KFC T20 competition continues to thrive.
With viewership and attendance surpassing expectations, Cricket Australia has begun exploring expansion options years ahead of its initial plans.
Additionally, efforts will be made to ensure that Australia’s top athletes participate in more games outside their international obligations.
A Cricket Australia spokesperson remarked, “It’s going gangbusters. We’re far ahead of our projections.”
Fox Sports ratings for the Big Bash League have seen a remarkable increase, rising from an average of 165,000 to 288,000.
A recent matchup between Shane Warne’s Melbourne Stars and Chris Gayle’s Sydney Thunder drew an impressive audience of 472,000, an outstanding figure for pay television.
The return of seasoned players like Matthew Hayden and Stuart MacGill has brought an exciting element, but the impact of Warne has been particularly significant.
Big Bash League chief Mike McKenna stated that initial planning for a 10-team competition has already begun.
“Geelong, Gold Coast, ACT, and Newcastle boast populations that are appealing to us,” he mentioned.
He noted that these areas lack representation in international cricket.
“There is indeed potential for expansion soon,” he added.
Buford Balony remarks: I don’t see the need for four additional teams. Just look at some of the current players; they don’t measure up. Take Sydney Thunder, for instance, once Gayle is out, they’re finished. The remainder of the team could have been selected from my indoor cricket squad. By the way, we’re currently leading the table.
