Cricket Australia mulling hosting BBL 2026 opener in Chennai, final call to be taken by BCCI: Report

The report stated that the TNCA officials met a Cricket Australia delegation a few days ago, and the possibility of hosting the BBL opener at the Chepauk was discussed. However, the final call has been left with the BCCI. The Australian delegation comprised two representatives from the BBL and one functionary from Cricket Australia.

“The ball is in the BCCI court,” the official added.

If Cricket Australia gets the nod from the BCCI, the BBL opener would be played in December. The BCCI is reportedly taking a considered view of the situation, and the final decision is expected in a few days.

"The bold ambition is part of a wider strategy to intertwine the lucrative Indian market with the BBL ahead of a near-certain sale for at least two of its eight franchises," a report in Australian media outlet SEN read.

According to Cricbuzz, the Perth Scorchers could be one of the two teams to potentially play at Chepauk. This decision is due to favourable time zones, as the Western Australian city is just 2.5 hours ahead of IST.

The Perth Scorchers are also the defending champions, having won the last edition of the BBL, so they are in line to play the season opener from that regard as well.

Speaking of the BBL, the tournament has become one of the most-watched overseas T20 leagues. The competition began in 2011 and Scorchers have won the BBL six times.

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