New Zealand Cricket has announced that the launch of its proposed six-team T20 league, NZ20, has been delayed by one year and will now begin in the 2027-28 home summer.The tournament was initially scheduled to start later this year, but organisers decided to postpone the competition to allow more time for planning and discussions with potential investors.In a statement released on Monday, NZC said ongoing talks with investors and stakeholders highlighted the need for additional preparation before the privately owned franchise league could be successfully launched.
The cricket board also cited a packed international schedule as a major factor behind the delay, with New Zealand set to host Test series against Australia and Sri Lanka during January and February, leaving limited space in the calendar.NZC confirmed earlier this year that NZ20 would replace the long-running Super Smash tournament, which has been part of New Zealand’s domestic cricket structure for 21 years. The Super Smash competition will continue for at least one more season before the new league begins.
NZC Board Chair Diana Puketapu-Lyndon said the board remained focused on building a sustainable and globally competitive domestic T20 structure for the future of New Zealand cricket.Meanwhile, similar privatisation efforts surrounding Australia’s Big Bash League have also reportedly slowed due to limited backing from key stakeholders.
