Wellington, 23 March (H.S.):

New Zealand Cricket gave initial approval on Monday to the proposed NZ20 T20 competition, paving the way for it to become the country's flagship domestic T20 event.

The board will now focus on operations, rights distribution and commercial setup. This move aims to reshape domestic T20 cricket, with NZ20 potentially replacing the current Super Smash – men's edition launched in 2005-06 and women's in 2007-08.

NZC is shifting from an association-based system to a franchise model, like many nations worldwide.

Board chair Diana Puketapu-Lyndon said Monday the panel weighed running NZ20 independently against linking it to Australia's Big Bash but opted for a standalone after deep talks.

The board took all proposals seriously and concluded now's the right time to refresh our 21-year-old Super Smash, she said. This follows wide consultation in our cricket network, plus careful review of info including the Deloitte report.

Next up: finalizing terms with NZ20 and securing member backing.

NZC stressed women's cricket will get priority for equal status and visibility, while keeping regional representation so fans stay connected to local stars. Ownership and equity issues will get close attention too.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar