New Zealand Cricket proposes to replace Super Smash with franchise-based NZ20

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) have proposed to replace their domestic T20 competition Super Smash with the "preferred option" of franchise-based NZ20 league. Notably, it is not a final decision but an "in-principle" one among the board directors on the preferred path for the future.

The consequence of the new development opens the doors for the board to further the consultations to explore commercial, governance and administrative matters relating to the proposed option. NZC Chairperson Diana Puketapu-Lyndon shed light on the discussions that occurred in the board meeting. One of the major aspects was the idea of introducing its women's T20 domestic teams into the WBBL and expanding the Australian T20 league with the NZ20 concept.

“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. 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,” said Puketapu-Lyndon in a press release.

This is an exciting time for cricket in New Zealand: Puketapu-Lyndon

The board reaffirmed its emphasis on the women's game and made it clear that it wants to protect the interests of its players. It also outlined the importance of regional representation for inspiring the next generation of cricketers and considered equally significant the aspect of ownership of franchises.

“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.

“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.

“This is an exciting time for cricket in New Zealand. We owe it to everyone to negotiate an outcome that best serves the interests of the game here - and we’re confident we’re heading in the right direction," concluded Puketapu-Lyndon.

Meanwhile, NZC board director Dion Nash resigned from his position just a few hours after the NZ20 development. Remarkably, the former Kiwi pacer expressed that "he could no longer align with the future direction of the organisation and his position within that".