
Despite generating earnings of $43 million by hosting the 2022 Men’s T20 World Cup, Cricket Australia (CA) has reported a financial loss of $16.9 million for the 2022-23 financial year. CA cited a decline in revenue due to reduced media rights and match revenues, particularly in a non-Ashes year, as the primary reason for the losses. Notably, the Men’s T20 World Cup attracted large crowds to stadiums, with a remarkable 92,000 attendees for the India vs. Pakistan match at the MCG.
CA explained, “The strong performance of the T20 World Cup has led to an increase in player revenue share and collaboration with the States and Territories. As a result, funding has reached an all-time high, with a $7 million increase to $120 million.”
The statement also noted a 5% increase in total expenses, excluding player payments. This increase was attributed to the full delivery of programs, higher travel costs post-COVID, and investments in the Big Bash League and the new grassroots cricket system.
Media Rights deal secured
During the financial year, CA secured a significant seven-year, $1.512 billion media rights deal with the Foxtel Group and the Seven West Media. This deal is set to broadcast cricket in Australia from 2024 to 2031. Additionally, a new seven-year agreement with Disney Star was negotiated for the right to broadcast Australian cricket in India, ensuring the long-term financial security of the game.
CA also successfully negotiated a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Australian Cricketers’ Association. This MOU included an overall increase from $80 million to $133 million in payments to contracted women’s players over the agreement’s duration. Moreover, registered participation rates in community cricket rebounded to nearly record pre-COVID levels, with an increase from 598,931 to 627,693.
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Notably, the 11th season of the Big Bash League (BBL) once again emerged as the most-watched sports league in Australia on a per-game linear TV basis, with an average of 532,000 viewers per game. The return of full crowds to venues was highlighted by a sold-out audience of 53,866 for the final between the Perth Scorchers and Brisbane Heat at Perth Stadium.
Nick Hockley, CEO of CA
Nick Hockley, CEO of Cricket Australia, expressed pride in the accomplishments of the national teams. He highlighted the Australian women’s team’s success, including winning Commonwealth Games Gold, a T20 World Cup, and retaining both the Ashes and their No.1 position across all formats. The Australian men’s team secured their first ICC World Test Championship and retained the Ashes. Additionally, national inclusion teams continued to inspire individuals of all abilities to play cricket.
Mike Baird, CA Chairman, emphasized the organization’s role in shaping the future of cricket, emphasizing the commitment to Test cricket’s primacy and maximizing the benefits of cricket’s status as an Olympic sport to expand the game’s horizons.
The financial report also highlighted a 24% increase in registered participation for Woolworths Cricket Blast, with more than 25,000 girls aged 5-12 registering to play cricket. This aligns with Australian Cricket’s strategy to double the number of 5 to 12-year-olds playing cricket within five years.