New Zealand Cricket has thrown its weight behind NZ20, signalling an “in-principle” switch from the long-running Super Smash to a refreshed domestic T20 league. The board stresses the choice is not final, yet the decision effectively rules out any immediate move into Australia’s W/BBL set-up.
“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,” NZC chair Diana Puketapu-Lyndon said.
A Deloitte review, broad feedback from major associations and player groups, plus commercial modelling, all fed into the call. Puketapu-Lyndon added: “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.”
One non-negotiable, the board insists, is a clearer pathway for women. “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”.
Current White Ferns captain Sophie Devine likes the direction: “I think the opportunity to build something here in New Zealand, hopefully play more games of cricket within New Zealand, is really exciting,” she said. “But equally, I mean, I’ve been involved in the Big Bash from the start so I know exactly what that tournament can bring. But at the end of the day, we’ve got to do what’s best for, I guess, the game in general.”
The working group behind NZ20 is fronted by Don MacKinnon – lawyer, Sports Integrity Commission chair, and former NZC director – with public backing from Stephen Fleming and other past internationals. Their blueprint mirrors the Caribbean Premier League: NZC will license the competition, day-to-day operations sitting with an independent body. Private investment is expected, although the board is weighing how much equity it should retain.
Timelines remain tight. Original plans pointed to a January 2027 launch, leaving under a year to finalise broadcast deals, team locations and player contracting. Even a compressed 30-to-35-match window, standard for T20 franchise tournaments, will test New Zealand’s midsummer calendar already shared with international fixtures.
“This is an exciting time for cricket in New Zealand,” Puketapu-Lyndon said “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.”
For now, Super Smash lives on but its 22nd season could be its last in the current guise. Whether NZ20 hits the ground in 2027 or needs an extra summer, all eyes will be on how convincingly it elevates the women’s game while keeping domestic fans – and a global T20 market – engaged.
