A proposed Saudi-backed T20 league, worth around USD 400 million (approximately ₹3442 crore), is unlikely to receive support from the BCCI and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). As reported by The Guardian, both boards are worried the new league could weaken the influence of their own domestic T20 competitions — the IPL and The Hundred. “During discussions at the World Test Championship final at Lord’s this month, the ECB and
BCCI agreed to unite in opposing the new league. The boards agreed they would not issue ‘no objection certificates’ to their players to sign up for the new competition, as well as lobbying the International Cricket Council ( ICC) withhold their endorsement,” the report said. This refusal to issue NOCs means players from India and England will not be allowed to take part in the Saudi league.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision for a Global T20 League
The Saudi government’s sports investment arm, SRJ Sports Investments, is planning to invest USD 400 million into the new league. “Under plans that emerged in Australia this year, Saudi’s SRJ Sports Investments has pledged to inject USD 400m to set up the new league, which would have eight teams playing four tournaments in different locations each year in a set-up that has been compared to tennis’s Grand Slams,” Guardian said.
Cricket Australia (CA), unlike the BCCI and ECB, is reportedly more open to the idea and willing to collaborate with the Saudi investors. Since BBL franchises are owned by the Australian board and the state bodies, CA may see a financial benefit from such a partnership. Their interest lies primarily in attracting large private investments, something this Saudi project could offer.
Existing Leagues Already Dominating the Market
The IPL, valued at around USD 12 billion, remains the most dominant force in franchise cricket. Meanwhile, the ECB is preparing to earn GBP 520 million (USD 700 million) from the sale of 49% stakes in its eight ‘Hundred’ franchises. This adds further incentive for them to protect their tournament’s exclusivity.
“Cricket South Africa raised more than GBP 100m (USD 136 million) by selling franchises in its SA20 competition to Indian Premier League owners three years ago.” With the ICC currently under the leadership of former BCCI secretary Jay Shah, The Guardian also hinted that the global body is “unlikely to go against the wishes of the Indian board,” making it even harder for the Saudi project to gain formal approval.
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