The Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) has been a transformative force in Australian sport, but its current status as a boardroom afterthought is a missed opportunity. The WBBL's creation in 2015 marked a profound shift in how Australian cricket viewed women's cricket, recognizing it as a product capable of attracting fans, sponsors, broadcasters, and investment. This belief helped transform not only Australian cricket but also Australian sport, leading to unprecedented participation growth and the creation of household names like the Matildas. However, the WBBL's importance is being overlooked in the current debate surrounding the future of cricket in Australia, particularly in the context of privatization. Despite the men's Big Bash League (BBL) remaining the primary driver of broadcast and sponsorship revenue, the WBBL should not be forgotten. Investors worldwide are increasingly recognizing women's teams as significant growth opportunities, with over $2 billion directed towards women's sport properties globally. Yet, not a single dollar from this substantial investment is currently directed at Australia. This raises a deeper question: if the driver for privatization is purely economic, why isn't the WBBL being discussed more? The cricketing public is being told that women's cricket isn't part of the main game, which is a mistake. The WBBL's value extends beyond its economic impact; it represents a commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women in sport. As the world slides into the post-COVID era, the WBBL's success in attracting investment and building excitement around women's cricket should be a model for other sports. In my opinion, the WBBL's potential is being underestimated, and its inclusion in the privatization debate is crucial for the future of women's cricket in Australia. The WBBL's story is one of ambition and resources, and it's time for the cricketing public to recognize its significance.
