The momentum of both domestic and international cricket was interrupted, mirroring the shutdown seen across various sporting disciplines. Facing a financial crisis, Cricket Australia looked into hosting matches—with or without a crowd—to maintain necessary revenue streams. The severity of their situation is evident in their drastic cost-cutting measures, which included an 80% reduction in staff and paying the remaining workforce only 20% of their usual salaries.
Cricket, along with various other sports, had halted the progress on commencing the matches of both national and international series. Cricket Australia had come up with a decision to conduct the matches with or without spectators, as to keep the rotation of money for the CA board. As Cricket Australia has to cut-off the human resource by eighty percent and by paying twenty percent of the salary to the employees, the Australian cricket association had come forth with this thought.
Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts warned that canceling the season would lead to losses in the millions, forcing the board to seek any viable alternative to resume play. As part of these discussions, Roberts suggested increasing the number of Tests during the India tour scheduled for November and December 2020 from four to five, although he admitted that the planning process is still ongoing.
Regarding the 2020 T20 World Cup, Roberts highlighted that the tournament remains a priority; since television broadcasts provide essential funding for the ICC and its member boards, the lack of live spectators wouldn't negate the financial necessity of the event. He concluded by stating that the board is open to any strategy that ensures a safe environment for the sport, as they are determined to save the season despite the looming financial threats.