A push to privatise Big Bash League clubs is far from a cash grab but instead an opportunity to protect other forms of the sport, Cricket Tasmania boss Dominic Baker says.
Bold plans to sell-off stakes in the eight league franchises moved a step closer in mid-June when the six state bodies signed off on a "self-determination model".
However, there are still administrative hurdles to clear - the boards of the state bodies must independently vote to accept the privatisation model.
Baker, who oversees the Hobart Hurricanes, is supportive of the privatisation movement and said the Cricket Tasmania board was still keen to test the market.
"That’s all we’ve committed to, to go to the next stage," he told reporters on Tuesday.
"To see who's out there, to see what they’re prepared to bring to this franchise and this state."
Baker visited India earlier this year and chatted with prospective team buyers and said he was continuing to talk with interested parties.
"We believe this is a really great opportunity to fuel growth in the sport. I think that gets lost in the argument a bit," he said.
"This is about protecting what we love around cricket. Red-ball cricket, women’s domestic cricket, pathway cricket ... to have the funds to ensure that the Tasmanian Tigers brand is still strong.
"People think it is a grab for cash rather than an opportunity to continue to grow the game.
"We’re open minded. We don’t tend to get too concerned about what others think or do in this space. It’s about what we think is right for us."
Cricket Victoria in June announced it had hopes of selling one of its two Melbourne licences.
However, cricket governing bodies from NSW, Queensland and SA have held reservations about the privatisation push.
Baker said crowds and ratings for the Hurricanes, who are reigning women's champions and won the men's title in 2024/25, had increased last season.
The league is breaking new ground for season 2026/27 by opening the competition with a game in India between the Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers.
