Serious concerns are mounting over the financial stability of South Africa's flagship SA20 cricket tournament, as a major sale process for Australia's Big Bash League threatens to divert crucial private investment.
Investment Battle Heats Up for Global T20 Leagues
The looming auction of stakes in Big Bash franchises, managed by the New York-based Raine Group, has cast a shadow over the SA20's prospects. All six SA20 teams are owned by Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, several of which are now eyeing opportunities in the Australian market. This shift in focus places the long-term viability of the South African competition in jeopardy.
While the SA20's medium-term future is secured by 10-year franchise fee commitments made ahead of its 2023 launch, its long-term outlook is now less certain. Investors increasingly view The Hundred in England and the Big Bash as more attractive propositions for reliable returns.
City AM understands that two of Cricket South Africa's (CSA) key partners are considering exiting their positions. Broadcast giant SuperSport, which holds a 30% stake, and Indian businessman Sundar Raman, a former IPL chief operating officer with a 20% share, are reportedly looking to sell. CSA remains the majority stakeholder and licence holder with a 50% share.
Global Cricket Landscape Faces Further Disruption
In a separate but significant development, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) finds itself in a state of uncertainty regarding England's upcoming T20 World Cup fixture against Bangladesh. The match is scheduled for 14 February in Kolkata, but the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has declared its team will not travel to India for the tournament, which is co-hosted with Sri Lanka.
Heightened political tensions between Bangladesh and India are spilling onto the cricket pitch. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has instructed IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladeshi bowler Mustafizur Rahman. The BCB has formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to relocate its T20 World Cup matches outside of India, but has received no response. The ECB's own enquiries to the ICC have similarly gone unanswered.
Other Major Sports Headlines
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Tennis Governance Split: A rift is emerging among tennis's Grand Slams. Tennis Australia has moved to settle a lawsuit filed by the Professional Tennis Players' Association (PTPA), while the other three majors jointly filed to dismiss the same claim. In a curious twist, Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley is in advanced talks to take the same role at the US Tennis Association post-Australian Open. Separately, Novak Djokovic has severed ties with the PTPA, citing concerns over its values and governance.
FA Cup Broadcast Bonanza: TNT Sports will broadcast a record 22 FA Cup third-round ties live this weekend, marking the start of its four-year rights deal. The broadcaster will also air a special 'Goals Show' featuring near-live clips from Saturday's 3pm kick-offs, permitted as no Premier League or Championship games are scheduled. The BBC will show Macclesfield v Crystal Palace and Tottenham v Aston Villa under a sub-licensing agreement.
