Cricket Australia Reports $11.3 Million Loss Despite Record India Series Revenue
Cricket Australia (CA) has reported a net loss of AUD 11.3 million (USD 7.34 million) for the financial year 2024-25, despite a huge surge in revenue after hosting the much-hyped Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the celebrated Ro-Ko (Rohit-Kohli) comeback series against India.
CA reported at its annual general meeting (AGM) on Thursday that total revenue had increased by AUD 49.2 million from the previous year to AUD 453.7 million, largely driven by a new domestic media deal and match receipts from the five-Test blockbuster against India.
However, the additional revenue earned was offset by increased expenditure, which increased by AUD 24.1 million, mainly related to the marketing associated with the India series, and the costs associated with 70 additional days of international touring for the national teams. Distributions to CA's member states and territories had a modest increase of AUD 800,000 to AUD 120.9 million from the previous year.
"For another year, CA is presenting a financial loss with a balance sheet showing member funds in deficit. It is especially disappointing that since FY2019, Cricket Australia's accounts have shown significant cumulative loss, excluding COVID-related impacts and World Cup revenue," CV chairman Ross Hepburn said at the AGM.
CA hopes Ashes and India tours will boost finances; looks at private investment in BBL
CA Chief Executive Todd Greenberg remained optimistic about the coming financial year, citing the upcoming Ashes series against England, which starts in Perth on November 21, 2025. He said the board expected a strong recovery in commercial and sponsorship revenue, from 69 million Australian dollars to 86 million Australian dollars in 2025-26.
"The Ashes and India white-ball content in FY26 is expected to deliver significant profit to CA and enable us to rebuild our net assets and cash reserves for the next cycle," said CA Chief Financial Officer Sarah Pragnell.
In an attempt to fortify its long-term financial outlook, CA is also considering private ownership of BBL teams to help take the competition's value and competitiveness up against T20 leagues around the world such as the Indian Premier League. However, persuading member states is still a significant hurdle to overcome.
"We believe that all other options need to be diligently canvassed before resorting to selling off member assets," Hepburn cautioned.
Despite the immediate setback, CA remains optimistic that upcoming marquee events like the Ashes and India's white-ball tour will help the board swing back into the black in the next financial year.