NEW DELHI: In order to attract both elite international players and spectators, Australia’s biggest T20 tournament, the Big Bash League, may include innovations such as “double play run-outs” and “designated hitters” starting in the upcoming season.
“High-level discussions” to “bring about significant rule changes for BBL15” were verified by several Cricket Australia sources, according to a report published in the “Sydney Morning Herald” on Friday.
If two batters are out of their crease, the double-play rule would permit the bails to be taken off at both ends. It’d be a “bold change which would require the consent of the players and broadcasters” .
The concept of a “designated hitter” is another novelty that might be implemented in the upcoming season. This regulation permits opposing teams to designate a single player who will solely bat and not be required to field.
According to the report, some of the top cricket minds were working to further enhance the premier tournament by making “matches quicker” and “improving the quality of the competition by reducing the workload on the sport’s biggest names,” but official consultations with stakeholders had not yet taken place.
In an effort to liven up the BBL, CA is also actively investigating innovations in baseball and England’s “The Hundred” tournament. The Playing Conditions Advisory Committee will review the improvements, which should take place in July or August.
With teams bowling 12 balls from one end and the captain having the option to let the same bowler bowl 12 consecutive deliveries, another innovative idea being investigated is cutting the number of end changes in half.
Sydney Sixers batting stalwart Jordan Silk, on being asked if it would be too much of a burden for pacers to send down 12 deliveries, replied: “They do it in the nets. It might be a rare occurrence where you’d see it happen.”
