Cricket Australia (CA) estimated a loss of $20 million (approximately ₹133 crore) following the 2025/26 Ashes, with the Perth Test and the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne both ending inside two days. The early finishes affected the financial returns from two of the biggest fixtures of the Australian summer, despite strong crowds and commercial interest.
The Melbourne Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) attracted a record Ashes crowd of 94,000. However, the match lasted only two days, limiting the revenue that could have been generated through additional days of ticket sales and other matchday activities.
“We’ve had a record Ashes crowd at the MCG, 94,000, only going two days there,” outgoing CA chair Mike Baird said. He jokingly reminded his successor, David Boon, of the financial value of longer matches, saying five-day Tests were a good thing.
The loss from the MCG Test was initially estimated at around ₹67 crore but eventually exceeded that figure. CA chief executive Todd Greenberg said the Perth and Melbourne Tests were each worth “give or take $20m”, highlighting the financial consequences of matches finishing well before the scheduled fifth day.
Despite the setbacks, CA managed to meet its financial targets for the year. Greenberg said stronger-than-expected performance in non-broadcast revenue, sponsorship and other commercial areas helped offset the shortfall from the two Tests.
CA’s annual revenue increased from $455.6 million in the 2025 financial year to $601.1 million in 2026. The Ashes summer benefited from strong interest in broadcasting, ticket sales and commercial partnerships, helping the board maintain its overall financial performance.
However, the outlook for the next couple of summers is more challenging. Australia has recently hosted marquee series against India and England, which attract significant commercial interest. With New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Pakistan scheduled to tour Australia, CA expects financial pressure and is looking to minimise costs.
Baird said the board wanted to achieve a more sustainable financial position. He also highlighted potential private investment in the Big Bash League as an opportunity to strengthen the competition, improve the fan experience and create new avenues for growth.
The two-day Tests exposed the financial risks of early finishes, even during a high-profile series. CA’s challenge will be to maintain revenue growth while managing costs during summers without the same commercial pull as the Ashes.
