Xtra Time Web Desk: The upcoming tenth edition of the Big Bash League (BBL) will feature three rule innovations designed to encourage and reward positive, high-scoring cricket. The batting side will be given more control over its innings with the addition of the Power Surge. The power play has been shortened to four overs, fixed to the start of the innings. An additional two over “Power Surge” can be taken by the batting team any time from the 11th over onwards.
Teams will also have the ability to change strategy at the 10 over mark of the first innings and substitute in an X-Factor player. This player, named as either the 12th or 13th player on the team sheet, can replace any player who is yet to bat or bowled no more than one over.
Endeavour and enterprise will be rewarded in the second innings with the introduction of the Bash Boost. Four competitions points will be up for grabs per match – three points for the overall win and one Bash Boost point, awarded half way through the second innings. The team chasing will receive the Bash Boost if they’re above the equivalent 10-over score of their opposition. If they’re trailing, the fielding side will receive the point.
Alistair Dobson, Cricket Australia’s Head of Big Bash Leagues, said, “The introduction of these new innovations is yet another reason why the KFC BBL|10 season is set up to be the most exciting in the League’s history.
“The Power Surge, X-Factor and Bash Boost prioritise scoring, exciting cricket, introduce new strategic angles and ensure there’s always something to play for throughout the entire match.
“We’re confident our fans will love what these innovations bring to the game as many of the world’s top T20 players, plus our next generation of Australian stars, bring them to life on field.”