New Zealand Cricket have approved a new franchise league, the NZ20, as their preferred option for domestic T20 competition.
New Zealand Cricket discussed potentially joining BBL before announcing NZ20
The NZC announced in a statement on Monday (March 23) that they are looking at the newly approved NZ20 to “revitalise” the Super Smash, which is currently their premier domestic T20 competition. A final decision on the franchise league is yet to be taken, but the board have started working towards the establishment of the league.
NZC Chair Diana Puketapu-Lyndon revealed that they weighed up multiple options, including joining Australia’s Big Bash League after a potential expansion. But it was decided that moving to a franchise-based system from the current local association-based T20 competition would be the way to go.
“There was extensive discussion on the merits of these proposals, but the Board concluded that now’s the right time to revitalise our 21-year-old Super Smash competition,” she said in a statement released by the New Zealand cricket board.
“This followed broad consultation, particularly within our cricket network, and careful consideration of a wide range of information and advice, including the Deloitte Report. The next steps include working with NZ20 to agree terms and seeking support from our members.”
The men’s Super Smash began in the 2005-06 season, while the women’s competition was started two years later in 2007-08.
“In particular, we want to work with NZ20 to ensure it incorporates and supports the women’s domestic T20 competition, and that it maintains a level of prominence and visibility consistent with NZC’s strategic commitment to the women’s game,” Puketapu-Lyndon added.
“Ensuring regional representation of NZ20 teams so fans and aspiring young cricketers can see their heroes in action is also very important to the Board, as is the question of ownership and control, including equity in the competition”.
NZC board member Dion Nash resigns hours after NZ20 announcement
Soon after the NZ20 was approved by NZC, board member Dion Nash resigned from his position. The former New Zealand all-rounder was elected to the board in 2024. "Ultimately, I reached a point where I felt it was the right time to step aside," he said (via RNZ).
Last December, NZC's previous CEO Scott Weenink also announced his resignation amid discussions of the NZ20, saying that he held a different view from several member associations, "on the future priorities for NZC, including the long-term direction of the game and the best role for T20 cricket in New Zealand."
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