World’s Cricketers “Very Keen” For Big Bash Privatisation So They Don’t Have To, Uh, You Know, Go Over There For 8-10 Weeks

ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact

Several leading international cricketers have privately expressed enthusiasm for the potential privatisation of Australia’s Big Bash League, citing the opportunity to earn competitive salaries without having to travel to India for the IPL.

While the Indian Premier League remains the most lucrative domestic competition in world cricket, players have admitted, often off the record, that their participation is largely financially motivated. Many described the tournament as “an endurance exercise” involving extended hotel confinement, heavy promotional commitments and limited personal freedom.

“You spend most of the time indoors,” said one senior England player.

“You play, you train, you recover. You are the team’s property. The hotel becomes your entire existence. I go to sleep each night dreaming of that cash finally landing in my holdings account on Jersey and the cool shit I’m going to buy with it. That’s what gets me through.”

Others noted that while Australia’s Big Bash does not yet offer equivalent pay, it provides more agreeable conditions. Players referenced Australia’s infrastructure, climate and cultural familiarity as factors that make it a preferred destination, should remuneration improve.

A South African fast bowler currently contracted to an IPL franchise said that a privatised Big Bash could “change the global balance” of domestic leagues.

“If Australia can offer a similar deal, most of us would go there instead,” he said.

“I mean, why wouldn’t you? You can open your mouth in the shower and go to the pub for dinner with the family and most people just leave you alone, or just give you a nod and a shaka or whatever. Sure, you have the autistic people asking for selfies but they can’t help it. But it’s just a more manageable environment. You can walk outside without security. Feel the breeze, listen to the birdsong in the morning. It feels almost like home.”

Cricket Australia confirmed discussions around external investment in the league are ongoing. The governing body said it welcomed the renewed international interest, but stressed that “no formal changes” had been made.

Players’ unions have also indicated support for the move, citing “wellbeing and lifestyle factors” as key considerations in future contract negotiations.

More to come.