The Big Bash League (BBL) is down to its final two games, with the Hobart Hurricanes securing a spot in the finals after defeating the Sydney Sixers in the first qualifier. Meanwhile, the challenger will be decided in a Sydney derby as the Sixers and Thunder face off today at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) for the last finals berth.
This season has been another success, featuring thrilling matches and standout performances. However, all eyes are on the potential new rules being considered for the next season, reportedly inspired by England’s Hundred tournament and baseball. Cricket Australia (CA) is actively discussing these innovations, aiming to make the game faster and reduce player workloads.
Proposed New Rules:
- Designated Hitter (DH): Teams could name one player in their XI who only bats and doesn’t field.
- Back-to-Back Overs and 12-Ball Overs: Captains might allow a bowler to deliver 12 consecutive balls across two overs.
- Double Plays: A run-out at both ends of the pitch could result in two batsmen being dismissed if they are both out of their crease.
- Maiden Variations: A batsman could be dismissed if a bowler delivers six consecutive dot balls, or alternatively, a bowler could earn an extra over for bowling a maiden.
These rules are being developed to quicken the pace of play while addressing player fatigue. Discussions about these changes are reportedly taking place behind closed doors and could significantly alter how cricket is played.
Cricket Australia’s high-performance consultant for the WBBL and BBL, Trent Woodhill, has been involved in the discussions. Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, he highlighted the designated hitter rule and praised the fielding prowess of Sydney Sixers’ Jordan Silk.
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“We went through this with The Hundred; the penny drops when people realise what T20 cricket really is. Fielding isn’t just running between overs or getting into position quickly. It’s everything else that someone like Silky does that makes him so valuable,” Woodhill said.
If adopted, these rules could reshape the BBL, bringing a fresh approach to T20 cricket.