On Thursday, January 15, the Big Bash League officially announced a brand-new rule that will be introduced from the next season, BBL 16. The rule is called the Designated Batter and Fielder Rule, and it gives teams more flexibility in how they select and use players during matches.
This move continues the BBL’s long tradition of experimenting with fresh ideas to make the game more exciting for players and fans alike.
What Is the Designated Batter and Fielder Rule in BBL?
Under this new rule, all eight Big Bash League teams will have the option to nominate one player from their playing XI as a designated batter before the toss or bat flip.
The designated batter will only be allowed to bat in the match. They will not be permitted to bowl or take the field at any point during the game.
Once the innings change, the designated batter will be replaced by the designated fielder. This fielder will also be named before the bat flip. While the designated fielder will not be allowed to bowl, they can take the field and are even allowed to act as the wicketkeeper.
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Teams Can Choose Whether to Use the Rule
One important aspect of this rule is that it is completely optional. Teams are not required to use a designated batter or fielder in every match. If they prefer, they can continue with a traditional playing XI without any changes.
It’s also worth noting that this rule will only apply to the Men’s Big Bash League. The Women’s Big Bash League will not be affected.
BBL Aims to Add Strategy and Entertainment
Cricket Australia’s general manager of Big Bash Leagues, Alistair Dobson, explained that the goal of the new rule is to give teams more strategic options while keeping the core of the game intact.
“The Big Bash was built on the spirit of innovation and evolution, and our new designated batter and fielder rule is about giving teams more strategic options and creating new dynamics for fans to enjoy,” said Alistair Dobson, Cricket Australia’s general manager of Big Bash Leagues, as quoted by Cricket.com.au.
“Every fan wants to see the most explosive batters and electric fielders playing as many games as possible and we’re excited to see how clubs use this flexibility to shape matches in BBL|16.
“Throughout the consultation process, we were conscious of not wanting to change the fundamentals of the game but rather add an element that will add interest, strategy and entertainment.”
Ricky Ponting on How the Rule Helps Senior Players
Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting shared his thoughts on the new rule while speaking on 7 Cricket. He believes it could help extend the careers of some experienced players while also creating opportunities for younger talent.
“Look, it’s an interesting rule change, I think but I think it to me it seems to be designated for a couple of reasons. One, to try and keep some of our aging stars in the tournament a little bit longer.Someone like a Chris Lynn and even a Mitchell Marsh as examples there and be able to bring some young youngsters into the group and blood them on the field and get them involved and try and bring on their skills that way.
“The other thing, other way I think it could be used is for someone like Travis Heady, a returning international player that’s had a big summer already. I’m sure if you ask Heady now if he would like to turn up and bat only, not have to worry about fielding to pick up an injury, that might be a deal for him.”
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Glenn Maxwell Highlights Opportunities for Young Players
All-rounder Glenn Maxwell also welcomed the change, especially from the perspective of young cricketers trying to break into domestic cricket. He believes simply being part of the match-day environment can be a huge learning experience.
“Yeah and certainly for a young player, I know when I got the experience to field with the Victorian side and not really have to bat or bowl, I knew it was probably the highlight of my week getting the opportunity to be a part of the state team. So I think to play domestic cricket and be around a change room as a young player, it could be really exciting for young guys to get opportunities to be out there on the ground.”
With BBL 16 set to introduce this new rule, it will be interesting to see how teams use it and which players benefit the most from the added flexibility and fresh tactical options.
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