Sydney: The Australian Big Bash League (BBL) has decided to introduce three new playing conditions for this year’s 10th edition.
The three new rules involve powerplay regulations, an opportunity to sub in a player, and a point to gain for being ahead of the opposition at the halfway mark of the chase.
Power Surge
A two-over period during which the fielding team is allowed only two players outside the inner fielding circle. The batting side can call for this at any point from the 11th over of their innings. The fielding restrictions replicate those of the usual Powerplay at the beginning of an innings, which has been shortened to four overs.
X-Factor
Named as either the 12th or 13th player on the team sheet, can come into the game beyond the 10th over of the first innings and replace any player who is yet to bat, or has bowled no more than one over.
Bash Boost
A bonus point awarded halfway through the second innings. The team chasing will receive the bonus point if they’re above the equivalent 10-over score of their opposition, while if they’re trailing, the fielding side will receive the point. Teams will also now be awarded three points for winning the match, as opposed to the traditional two.
Big Bash’s player acquisition and cricket consultant Trent Woodhill is behind these changes which will transform T20 cricket.
“We need innovation because people like change, but I think these (changes) will actually improve the game itself,” Woodhill told cricket.co.au.
“It’s going to put pressure on leaders and coaches. Having been involved in over 300 T20 matches in the women’s and men’s games, T20s have a pattern, and this will blow that pattern up,” he added. Earlier, BBL allowed teams to pick three overseas players instead of two. The tournament is scheduled to start on December 10. – Agencies
