The Big Bash League (BBL) is set to introduce a major change next season with the introduction of the “designated batter and fielder” rule, similar to baseball’s designated hitter system.
The new rule will allow teams to choose a player who can bat without needing them to field. The decision has been taken to help explosive batters play in the BBL for a longer period, allowing them to avoid injury or physical stress from fielding. The move is also expected to attract more international players and tired Test players back into the league.
Australian cricket great Ricky Ponting supported the move and explained its value for players and the tournament. “Some of these guys might be at a stage of their career where they feel that they can’t make much of an impact [in the field]. They also might be worried about picking up an injury while they’re in the field, which is another big part of it,” Ponting said on Seven.
Ponting added, “And what this tournament doesn’t want is to have these guys not playing, especially at this stage of the tournament when the big games are coming around. We all want to be seeing the best players playing, so if this rule helps that and keeps the longevity up, then that’s great.”
Under the new system, designated batters and fielders will not be allowed to bowl, whereas a designated fielder can still act as a wicketkeeper. If a team does not want to use this option, they can continue with a normal playing XI.
In an official statement, BBL consultant Trent Woodhill said the rule will add a new tactical element to the tournament. “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,” Woodhill said.
Currently, the rule will apply only to the BBL, while the WBBL will continue to review it for future seasons.
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