The Hobart Hurricanes accepted an invitation to play in a T20 tournament in Abu Dhabi next month.GETTY IMAGES
Cricket Australia "moved to tighten regulations around its Big Bash franchises" after the Hobart Hurricanes accepted an invitation to play a Twenty20 tournament in Abu Dhabi next month, according to Peter Lalor of THE AUSTRALIAN. While Tasmanian cricket "is delighted at the opportunity, it has upset other states and has clearly caused some argument" at CA HQ. The three-day tournament is in the middle of the JLT domestic one-day cup and features six int'l sides. It is sanctioned by the Emirates board and the Int'l Cricket Council and will be run by Abu Dhabi Cricket. Cricket Tasmania CEO Nick Cummins "is excited about the chance to give his young cricketers a chance to get overseas experience." CA "indicated he may be disappointed if he expects to go back next year." While Cricket Australia is now saying that its BBL franchises "must stick to domestic games and not partake in overseas tournaments," the Emirates T20x league "presents a more profound challenge to the Big Bash." The Emirates competition will feature five franchises in 22 matches over 24 days from Dec. 19 until Jan. 11 and is offering contracts of almost A$500,000 ($362,000) (THE AUSTRALIAN, 9/26).
