SYDNEY, October 8, 2025 – A bombshell report has revealed that Australian cricket stars Pat Cummins and Travis Head have rejected massive offers of nearly $10 million AUD per year to ditch international cricket for full-time franchise leagues. The informal proposals, reportedly made by overseas T20 outfits, would have seen the captain and his deputy walk away from their national duties, sparking widespread debate in the cricketing world.
The duo, currently earning between $1.5 and $3 million AUD annually under Cricket Australia contracts, have reaffirmed their commitment to the green and gold. Both players, who also feature for IPL side Sunrisers Hyderabad, plan to balance international commitments with lucrative T20 stints, showing no interest in abandoning Test and ODI cricket despite the tempting sums on offer.
The revelation has intensified calls for the Big Bash League (BBL) to be privatised, with experts arguing it could boost player salaries and keep talent at home. The global T20 boom, exemplified by South African star Heinrich Klaasen’s recent retirement from international cricket to focus on franchises, is putting pressure on Cricket Australia to adapt. Fans are now wondering how long the national team can hold onto its brightest stars.
Cricket Australia has yet to comment officially, but the news has reignited discussions about the future of domestic cricket. With the BBL facing competition from lucrative overseas leagues, privatisation could see the league align with a global network of franchise owners, potentially raising the stakes for Australia’s summer of cricket.
