Saudi Arabia’s T20 League Plans: $500M Investment to Boost Global Cricket

Test Cricket Growth

The idea behind the league has been proposed by ex-Australian cricketer Neil Maxwell, who has played a key role in managing Pat Cummins and has served on several cricket boards, including the Australian Cricketers’ Association and Cricket NSW.

In partnership with the Australian Cricketers’ Association, the league has been structured to generate financial resources aimed at addressing major cricketing concerns, with a strong emphasis on extending the sustainability of Test cricket beyond its traditional power bases in India, Australia, and England.  

Saudi Arabia’s $800M Investment in Global Cricket League

It has been indicated by sources that a consortium of investors is prepared to provide financial backing for the newly proposed league, with Saudi Arabia expected to commit nearly $ 800 million in investment. The details have been provided confidentially. 

According to the report, it has been revealed by individuals, with knowledge of discussions, who spoke under conditions of anonymity due to the confidential nature of the negotiations-that a group of investors is prepared to finance that yet-to-be-named global cricket league. Saudi Arabia is anticipated to be the chief source of funding, with the kingdom allegedly setting aside $500 million (roughly $800 million) to the cricket league. 

Saudi PIF & DAZN Involvement

SRJ Sports Investments, under the direction of former Australian soccer executive Danny Townsend, is responsible for the project. Furthermore, the Saudi Public Investment Fund has reportedly taken a minority stake in DAZN, which controls Australian broadcaster Foxtel. 

No public statements have been made by Maxwell and Townsend, but it has been reported that the tournament will be scheduled around major events such as the IPL and BBL. Both men’s and women’s competitions are expected to be covered in the league, with the final match set to take place in Saudi Arabia.

Authorization from Cricket Australia and the ICC remains pending, with the final verdict expected to be made by ICC Chairman Jay Shah, who previously held the role of BCCI secretary.