Former Australian cricket captain Allan Border has expressed conditional support for the privatisation of teams in the Big Bash League (BBL), advocating that all states must agree before the process proceeds. Border’s remarks come amid ongoing debate within Cricket Australia (CA) and among state cricket boards regarding the sale of franchise stakes, particularly the Melbourne Renegades.

Border, who remains a cricket commentator for Kayo Sports, welcomed the idea of private equity investment in the BBL, citing the lucrative franchise model used by the Indian Premier League (IPL) as a positive example. He noted that IPL teams have generated substantial revenue through franchise sales and expanding television rights, suggesting the BBL could benefit similarly from an injection of funding. However, Border expressed reservations about the "self-determination" approach initially proposed by South Australia, which would allow states to decide individually whether to privatise their teams. “I think it’s either all in or all out,” he said, indicating that a unified approach would be preferable.

The issue of privatisation has created divisions among the state cricket administrations. While CA’s board approved moving forward with the project last month, the decision currently has strong backing from only three of the six states. Resistance remains most pronounced in New South Wales and Queensland, with Western Australia’s board reportedly divided on the matter. Todd Greenberg, CA’s chief executive, said the sale process for the Melbourne Renegades is "well underway" and is expected to conclude before Christmas. He added that other states are also considering selling a 49 percent stake in their franchises but reassured that the self-determination model would allow those unwilling to sell to opt out without compulsion.

Adding complexity to the privatisation debate is tension between CA and the Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA). The two bodies have not reached agreement on whether players should be entitled to a share of the proceeds from franchise sales, a dispute that could result in binding arbitration.

Meanwhile, in leadership changes at CA, former Test opener David Boon has been appointed as interim chair following the resignation of Mike Baird. Border endorsed Boon’s appointment, describing him as a “good tough character” with deep knowledge of the game, capable of managing the challenges facing a fragmented cricket landscape.

With privatisation discussions continuing and key stakeholders divided, CA faces a complex task balancing commercial opportunities with the interests of players, state associations, and fans nationwide. The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for the future structure and financial model of the Big Bash League.