Cricket Victoria pauses plans to merge Stars and Renegades

Renegades and Stars, the two Melbourne-based Big Bash League clubs, will continue as separate entities for the next BBL and WBBL seasons.

The update follows a meeting between Cricket Australia and the six state associations to discuss BBL privatisation. Cricket Victoria confirmed the upcoming edition will feature both teams unchanged. Earlier this month, talks of merging the Stars and Renegades into one unit, selling 100% of the Renegades license to a private investor, had emerged.

Both clubs jointly stated a rebranded team won't proceed next season "due to the extended timeline for a decision on BBL privatisation."

"We want to acknowledge the passion, loyalty and pride you have shown in this club," the statement added.

Cricket Victoria has given "in principle support" for a self-determination model for private investment in the Big Bash. A contracting embargo currently prevents teams from signing players from last season.

Cricket Victoria has applied to trademark three potential names for a rebranded Melbourne team: Rangers, Magic, and Blazers.

Four conditions must be resolved before privatisation advances:

• Agree on governance structure for the new Big Bash Leagues
• Change current CA governance structure for the new operating model
• Reach agreement with the ACA on a self-determination model
• Finalise future funding and distribution agreements between CA and states

The rebranded Melbourne team would wear a blue-and-white kit, similar to Victoria's One-Day jersey, and play home matches in Melbourne.

Last season, the Stars reached the playoffs, losing to Hobart Hurricanes after finishing fourth. The Renegades finished seventh.

Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird said: "The states have agreed to go back to their boards to discuss these proposals and address any questions on four key topics… We're confident this will lead to the best possible outcome."