Former Australian wicketkeeper Ian Healy has come to the defence of Cricket Australia, which has faced criticism for not scheduling any matches on January 26 for the second consecutive year. This year, the Big Bash League final will take place on the evening of January 25, a Sunday, while January 26, which is Australia Day, has been set aside as a reserve day in case of rain.
Certain media outlets have interpreted this decision as a political statement, given the increasing controversy surrounding Australia Day and discussions about changing the date. However, Healy asserts that the absence of cricket on Australia Day stems from commercial considerations rather than political motives. He noted last year’s decision was influenced by the desire to avoid a clash with the Australian Open men’s final.
This year, the scheduling also aligns with the final day of the school holidays, and broadcasters preferred not to have the Big Bash final on what essentially would be a school night. Healy mentioned that both Channel Seven and Fox Sports recogniser the potential for a larger audience on Sunday evening compared to Monday, hence the scheduling choice.
“Some fans and media have questioned Cricket Australia over not having matches on January 26 because of the political implications,” Healy explained. “But this year, it’s strictly about television ratings.” He stressed that Cricket Australia remains open to playing on Australia Day if necessary, as they have designated it as a backup day.
Following discussions regarding the significance of January 26, Cricket Australia has indicated that they will work closely with their Indigenous advisory group when considering the day in future scheduling. Notably, Australian women’s cricket star Ash Gardner has previously expressed her opinion against marking the day, emphasising its historical context and the sentiments attached to it. “I don’t understand why this day of mourning, with its negative history, needs to be celebrated with cricket,” Gardner stated in 2023, reflecting a growing sentiment across various sectors about the appropriateness of the date.
Additionally, Cricket Australia has reiterated that it will not schedule matches on Christmas Day, maintaining a commitment to respecting cultural sensitivities in its scheduling practices. Overall, the decisions surrounding January 26 reflect a complex interplay of commercial interests, cultural heritage, and societal sentiment in contemporary Australia.