I think the question about investment models and different financial models continues to sort of bubble away, says BBL GM Alistair Dobson

Alistair Dobson, the General Manager of Big Bash Leagues shed light on the competition of Australia’s biggest T20 league with the Indian Premier League. He also reflected on the journey of BBL in the last 14 to 15 years since the tournament’s inception.

Dobson also emphasized the impact of the BBL teams being owned and managed by the state associations; he felt that this ‘managing structure’ of BBL plays a great role in establishing a connection in the community, resulting in better returns for the game.

Our competition is incredibly strong: Alistair Dobson 

Furthermore, Dobson was also asked if BBL and WBBL have any idea to compete with the presence of IPL in the current ‘franchise cricket’ structure.

“Yeah, a really important role of the Big Bash is to not only bring new fans into the game and connect our players and fans but also to drive revenue and commercial outcomes that support other parts of the game, the BBL has been incredibly successful, that over the past 14 or 15 years, and underpins a lot of investment into various parts of the game. I think the question about investment models and different financial models continues to sort of bubble away,” replied Alistair Dobson to CricTracker’s query.

“With that said, our competition is incredibly strong and we feel like the way it is now is the right mix for Australian cricket with our teams being owned and run by our state associations, gives great connection back into the community and drives great returns for our game. So that's the right model for us right now. That said, it's a competitive market for players, and we shouldn't have our eyes closed to opportunities that might come up,” he added later.

Notably, the next edition of the Big Bash League will have 44 matches after a reduction of matches in the revamped structure. The tournament will be played from December 15, 2024, to January 27, 2025.