New Zealand Cricket has announced that the proposed franchise-based NZ20 tournament is set to be supported as the country’s preferred domestic T20 competition. In a statement released on Monday, the board confirmed that preliminary approval has been granted, allowing the governing body to begin progressing with key aspects of the league’s development, including licensing and commercial planning.
According to the release, the initiative is aimed at revitalising New Zealand’s domestic T20 structure and would see the Super Smash replaced. The existing competition began in the men’s game during the 2005/06 season and was introduced in the women’s format in 2007/08. The proposed shift would mark a transition from the current association-based system to a franchise model, similar to structures used in several global leagues.
NZC board chair Diana Puketapu-Lyndon noted that the decision followed consideration of two primary options — establishing a standalone NZ20 tournament or aligning with the Australian Big Bash framework.
“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,” she said.
“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.”
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The governing body has identified several priority areas in the next phase of planning, including ensuring continued support for the women’s domestic game and maintaining regional representation within the new structure.
“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,” she said.
“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”.
Dion Nash steps down from NZC board
Shortly after the announcement regarding the proposed T20 league, New Zealand Cricket confirmed that board director Dion Nash had resigned from his position. Nash, who was elected to the board in 2024, stated that he was unable to align with the organisation’s future direction or his role within it.
“Ultimately, I reached a point where I felt it was the right time to step aside”, he said.
Puketapu-Lyndon acknowledged Nash’s contributions during his tenure. “We thank Dion for his dedicated service and valuable contributions,” she said. “We wish him well in his future endeavours.”
