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Melbourne BBL teams obliterated in bombshell cricket shake-up
Cricket Victoria will sell one licence as the new Melbourne franchise takes shape, while Andrew Flintoff begins a two-year stint with Sydney Thunder.
- On Tuesday, Cricket Victoria announced plans to merge the Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades into one team, informing staff of the decision and plans to sell its second BBL license to a private investor.
- This restructure aligns with Cricket Australia's phased "self-determination model" for stake sales; CV chair Ross Hepburn said the process aims to ensure "Victorian cricket remains strong."
- The merged franchise is reportedly set to be called "Melbourne" and wear navy blue, playing home games at the MCG, while the nickname "Bushrangers" has been floated.
- It remains unclear whether the Stars and Renegades will compete under their current brands in the 2026-27 season, and the future of players with lists nearing finalization is also uncertain.
- Separately, English cricket legend Andrew Flintoff has signed a two-year deal to coach the Sydney Thunder, replacing Trevor Bayliss to inspire the reigning wooden spooners.
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21 Articles
Coverage Details
Total News Sources21
Leaning Left5Leaning Right3Center2Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Left
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources lean Left
50% Left
L 50%
C 20%
R 30%
Factuality
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