How Tasmania's planned new stadium could trigger deal for Hobart Hurricanes

Cricket Tasmania (CT) remains steadfast in its support for privatizing stakes in the eight Big Bash League (BBL) clubs, a move that could significantly reshape the league's financial landscape. CT believes it can play a pivotal role in this transition, particularly concerning a potential deal for the Hobart Hurricanes, which is envisioned to be linked to the construction of a new fixed-roof stadium at Macquarie Point in Hobart.

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The chance to be involved in the first roofed cricket stadium in the world that potentially has all three formats played in it at an international level is something I think will be very attractive to some of our Indian friends.

CT CEO Dominic Baker recently participated in discussions in India with prospective investors and state officials, facilitated by The Raine Group, the firm that managed the sale of England's 'The Hundred' teams. This engagement aimed to gauge interest from potential Indian investors ahead of the next phase of privatization, which includes market testing and team valuations.

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We would like to think we can bring a partner into Tasmania that is not only involved in our cricket team but also in investing in the community.

Baker highlighted the planned $1.13 billion fixed-roof stadium as a major drawcard for potential investors. He believes this facility, slated to be the Hurricanes' home ground from 2031, could become the world's first stadium capable of hosting all three cricket formats internationally, regardless of weather conditions. "The chance to be involved in the first roofed cricket stadium in the world that potentially has all three formats played in it at an international level is something I think will be very attractive to some of our Indian friends," Baker stated.

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So, with what will happen around the stadium, and the opportunities that will happen around that, hotel, retail, all the stuff that goes with a new billion-dollar stadium being built, that's exciting to people.

Tasmania is exploring a model similar to a deal struck in the UK, where a 49% share in the Southern Brave Hundred team was bundled with the acquisition of Hampshire County Cricket Club, its stadium, a golf course, and a hotel. CT hopes to attract partners who are not only invested in the cricket team but also in the broader community development surrounding the new stadium, including potential hotel and retail opportunities. "We would like to think we can bring a partner into Tasmania that is not only involved in our cricket team but also in investing in the community," Baker said.

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I think they think there's the opportunity to get into that environment here through a pro sports team.