The BBL is set to introduce a designated batter and fielder into the competition next season, hoping to “continue its evolution” and “supercharge the action”.
In each game, teams can nominate one player in their XI to act as the designated batter.
If a designated batter is selected, a designated fielder must also be named from outside the original XI — neither of which are permitted to bowl.
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Teams also have the option not to nominate a designated batter and instead play with a traditional XI.
Interestingly, the designated fielder is allowed to be a wicketkeeper and the designated batter is not permitted to field.
The change could prolong the careers of the likes of Chris Lynn and Mitchell Marsh, allowing them simply to bat in the future and avoid the rigours of fielding.
The shift could also see more Test stars take part in the BBL after finishing their duties with the Australian side, such as Travis Head who won’t feature this season.
Meanwhile, rising stars who excel in the field could also make a name for themselves while their veteran batter or resident slogger watches on from the dugout.
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“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,” executive general manager of the BBL Alistair Dobson said.
“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.”
Meanwhile, the BBL’s player acquisition and cricket consultant Trent Woodhill was of the belief the shift allows teams to strengthen their batting line-ups.
“The Designated Batter and Fielder will create a new layer of strategic decision making for coaches and Clubs while maintaining the fundamentals of cricket,” he said.
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“Importantly, the rule allows clubs to genuinely strengthen both their attack through the batting innings and their defence in the field.
“The Designated Batter and Fielder will help our most impactful players stay involved in as many moments of each game as possible – whether it’s creating an opportunity for an elite fielder who has missed selection due to their core skill, or managing an explosive batter through a consolidated schedule.
“Feedback from players around the world to the concept has been very positive.
“They know what a great experience a summer in Australia is and we anticipate this rule will help to attract even more top-tier talent next season.”
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