Big Bash League schedule expands, but player standoff keeps agencies nervous

Cricket Australia has announced an expanded Big Bash League season, with 40 matches to be played between December 19 and February 4 – but the sport had been forced to admit doubt still clouds the future of the season and the Ashes series as the pay dispute with players continues.

The announcement also sees confirmation of the returning commercial partners, KFC, Toyota, and Weet-Bix for the BBL, and Rebel and the Commonwealth Bank for the Women’s Big Bash League.

The season of the Big Bash League is the last one on Ten before Cricket Australia takes the rights back to market, with both Nine and Seven – neither of which will be operating under the financial restraints Ten is suffering while in administration – both expected to be keen bidders.

Cricket Australia’s executive general manager of events and leagues, Anthony Everard, said CA remained confident of a resolution, despite talks having broken down several times.