Big Bash Christmas Day match: It would be great for TV ratings but please keep cricket away from December 25

There have been calls for the Big Bash League to play a fixture on Christmas Day.

There’s is plenty of cricket all around that day - there’s a Test match and two Big Bash League games today - we don’t need another.

I understand telecast viewership would go through the roof, but surely there are more important things than money.

Christmas Day should be with friends and family, relaxing and eating way too much.

Secondly, think of those who would have to work on that day as well, not just the players. Having a sister who is a nurse, I am acutely aware of the sacrifice that essential workers have always had to make.

Let’s not add to that list, please.

While Test cricket will always take centre stage in this country, what has been pleasing to watch is the resurgence of Big Bash. It was once the golden goose which turned quickly into an ugly duckling with the extension of matches and big names dropping out.

However, this 14th season of the BBL, things are turning around. The length is just about right, big stars such as David Warner, Chris Lynn and Lochie Ferguson are in for the entire tournament which can only be a good thing.

However, what will inevitably drive the crowds and numbers tuning into Channel 7 will be the standard of the competition. The last four BBL matches have come down to the last over.

When a down-and-out player, like axed Test opener Nathan McSweeney must front up and play a BBL game, he handles it in the best way. Not only did he answer with grace and reflection, but he also responded in the best way possible, with his bat, by scoring a match-winning, unbeaten 78 (49) against the Strikers this week.

Finally, across the ditch the Australian women’s team have secured the Rose Bowl for another year, making it an unbeaten run since 1999. That is some record against New Zealand.

Rain washed away the first ODI, however an Annabel Sutherland masterclass 105 not out (81) ensured that the Aussies put on a total that was always going to trouble the Kiwis. It is her third ODI century, taking full advantage of the opportunity to bat up the order.

Are we seeing another legend in the making? She is certainly on track and is only 23.

With the final match and securing the win, Australia claimed the Women’s Championship Trophy (a 50-over competition played between World Cups that helps teams qualify for the next World Cup) for the third time in a row.