Sydney, 28 October 2025 — Australian cricket fans could see two of India’s largest cricket legends in their backyard — at least if the latest comment from Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Todd Greenberg is any indication. In a media interaction this week, Greenberg made it clear that he was working on making high-profile overseas signings, including the dream scenario of Indian legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma playing for the Big Bash League (BBL) in the coming seasons.
The BBL, one of the globe’s best-known domestic T20 competitions, has been under increasing pressure from international tournaments such as the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Major League Cricket (MLC). Cricket Australia is said to be working towards “refreshing and globalizing” the brand of the BBL — something that would bring unprecedented partnership and international signings of marquee players.
An Ambitious Vision
Greenberg acknowledged that while logistical and regulatory challenges exist, the ambition remains strong.
“We want to make the Big Bash League the most entertaining T20 competition in the world outside the IPL,” he said. “If that means reaching out to global superstars and exploring creative avenues to make it happen, we’re absolutely open to it.”
The CA boss also complimented the effect of the Ravi Ashwin coup — the recruitment of veteran Indian legspinner Ravichandran Ashwin as a coaching consultant to Melbourne Stars last month. Greenberg termed this as an example of the BBL “thinking beyond borders” and creating partnerships with Indian cricket knowledge.
But when asked whether existing Indian internationals such as Kohli or Rohit would ever be able to play in the BBL, Greenberg conceded it’s a “complicated situation,” considering the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) established rule against active Indian players being in foreign leagues.
Regulatory Roadblocks
The BCCI’s policy is rooted in protecting the exclusivity of the IPL and ensuring player workload management. Historically, only retired Indian cricketers such as Yuvraj Singh and Suresh Raina have featured in overseas leagues. Current stars — no matter how prominent — have not been permitted to play in tournaments outside India.
In spite of these obstacles, Greenberg’s words convey an increasing sentiment amongst cricket boards to integrate the global T20 universe. “Cricket is turning more international in its entertainment value,” Greenberg said. “We’re receptive to conversations with the BCCI and other boards to discuss how we can make global participation a reality — not only for the BBL, but for the future of the sport.”
Industry observers opine that while the BCCI would not switch its policy soon, the possibility of collaborations — like coaching assignments, friendly matches or short guest spells — might be a feasible stepping stone.
Why the BBL Needs a Revival
The Big Bash League, which was once a force of domestic entertainment, has suffered low television viewership and fan interest in recent seasons. Although it remains successful, the league’s popularity has plateaued since its early days, when international stars such as Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers, and Andre Russell infused Australian summers with world-class panache.
With the inclusion of international cricket legends — even in cameo or advisory capacities — Cricket Australia aims to bring new energy and international eyeballs to the BBL brand. Experts feel that the presence of players like Kohli or Rohit, even in publicity campaigns or charity games, can have the power to change the dynamics around sponsorship, media rights, and the youth.
“Big Bash is a fantastic product,” Greenberg insisted. “But we must adapt to what the fans demand — international stars, innovation, and tales that cross borders.”
The Broader Strategy
Cricket Australia leadership has been centered around commercial diversification — from negotiations of media rights to international partnerships — as the organization works to build its post-pandemic financial resilience. Greenberg’s words reflect this direction, making the BBL a sporting and entertainment asset with international appeal.
Sports marketing analysts contend that aligning with Indian viewers could be a game-changer. India is cricket’s biggest consumer market, with more than 600 million watching marquee tournaments. Any symbolic association with Indian players would considerably boost the BBL’s brand equity throughout Asia.
While Kohli and Sharma’s dream of wearing BBL jerseys is yet to be realized, Todd Greenberg’s remarks signal a new era in Cricket Australia’s vision — one with collaboration, aspiration, and entertainment.
While the BBL might not compete with the IPL in size, there is potential for it to relight the flame that made it a worldwide T20 phenomenon with innovative leadership and international alliances. Cricket fans can only dream of the thunder throughout Australian grounds if the world’s largest stars ever choose to take guard in Australia.
