‘Cannot consider accepting’: Big Bash merger twist as bombshell letter threatens to block plan
The Australian Cricketers’ Association has halted Big Bash League privatisation, pledging to reject the current plan without an improved deal for players.
In an update to members, union CEO Paul Marsh said the ACA had taken a firm stance against Cricket Australia’s proposal.
Watch Bangladesh vs Australia ODI & T20 series LIVE & EXCLUSIVE on Fox Cricket, available on Kayo | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1.
Marsh argued the ACA “do not believe it will deliver the best outcome for the game or players”.
The ACA’s stance comes after Cricket Victoria motioned selling 100 per cent of the Melbourne Renegades and rebranding the Melbourne Stars.
Under governing rules, the landmark privatisation project cannot proceed without player agreement.
Marsh used three bolded subheads in an email seen by this masthead to outline the ACA’s decision.
“Australian cricket is not currently united on the right path to privatisation,” Marsh wrote.
“In particular, the recent upheaval around Cricket Victoria’s proposed sale of the Renegades and merger with the Stars reinforces our view that the game is not yet aligned on an approach that will deliver the appropriate value in the privatisation process.”
Cricket Victoria’s decision sparked a snap meeting among other states and the proposition of a sporting civil war.
Marsh says the ACA is not opposed to privatisation, “however, CA’s current MOU proposal to us does not improve on the existing player revenue share arrangement, does not provide for salary increases for all player cohorts, and fails to address the broader priorities players presented to CA.
“Until CA’s offer improves we cannot consider accepting what is in front of us.”
The current Big Bash League salary is $3 million, maxing out at $420,000 for a singular player.
Marsh says the ACA “are not aligned with the current direction of the process or the proposed MOU. We do not believe it will deliver the best outcome for the game or players.”
The ACA intends to continue working with CA and the states to address their concerns, warning players that a resolution will take time.
“It is likely this will take some time and we ask players to be patient as we do this. Given that any sale of these teams is forever, we need to get this right, now,” Marsh said.
A high-stakes meeting between CA and all state Chairs is scheduled for Monday to determine the immediate future of the BBL.
