BBL 2026/27 opener in India? CA explores this venue
What's the story
Cricket Australia is mulling hosting the 2026/27 Big Bash League (BBL) opening match in India. According to SEN Cricket, two senior officials from Cricket Australia, Phil Rigby and Margot Harley, recently visited India to explore Chennai as a possible venue for the match. The move could help the board connect with Indian and South Asian audiences who make up a large portion of cricket fans.
Engagement efforts
Boosting BBL's Indian fanbase
The idea of hosting an annual game in Chennai is aimed at boosting interest in the BBL among Indian fans. This comes as other sports leagues, such as Australia's National Rugby League (NRL), have already started hosting matches in Las Vegas to tap into the US sports betting market and secure international broadcast rights. Similarly, European football clubs have been playing their pre-season games in the US for years, with a recent push to host some major matches there, too.
Approval process
Need for approvals and permissions
The plan to host a BBL match in Chennai is still in its early stages and would require several approvals. These include permissions from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and broadcasters. If all goes well, one of the teams that could travel to Chennai is Perth Scorchers, which has been attracting interest from Indian businessmen looking to invest in this previously closed league.
Audience engagement
The growing trend of international leagues in India
The BBL has been making efforts to engage domestic audiences with innovative rules and favorable timings. However, capturing the attention of sub-continental fans is becoming increasingly important. Other leagues like SA20 and Major League Cricket (MLC) have already welcomed Indian investment, with several IPL owners building sister franchises and taking some of their Indian fanbases along. These leagues also invite Indian journalists every year to promote their competitions in India.