TOP STORIES

Big Bash League set to implement designated batter and fielder rule from next season

Friday, 16-Jan-2026, 03:38 AM
News

The Big Bash League is preparing for a landmark moment, with BBL|16 set to introduce a new designated batter and designated fielder rule that will reshape the game and will bring tactical challenges to games. From the opening match of BBL|16, teams will have the option to nominate a designated batter before the toss. 

This player’s role is clear and specialised – they can bat but will not be allowed to field or bowl at any stage of the match. At the change of innings, the designated batter will swap places with a designated fielder, who can take the field and even keep wicket if required but will not be permitted to bowl. 

Importantly, the designated batter rule is optional. Teams that prefer a more traditional setup can choose to play with a standard XI. Notably, the new rules are only limited to BBL. They will not be introduced in WBBL.


Tags

More News

News

Alyssa Healy blasts sensational 158 in her ODI farewell

44 mins ago

In a farewell befitting her stature in the game, Australia captain Alyssa Healy signed off in style, producing a breathtaking 158 from 98 balls in her final ODI appearance during the third ODI between Australia and India women in Hobart. The veteran batter's masterclass knock of 158 is the highest women’s ODI score against India and also the highest individual women’s ODI score...


News

"We were loud and clear": Ex-Pakistan batter slams team's disappointing campaign at T20 World Cup

2 hrs ago

Former Pakistan skipper Mohammad Yousuf has strongly criticized the Salman Agha-led side after their premature exit from the T20 World Cup 2026, questioning both leadership and overall performance. Pakistan’s campaign came to an end on Saturday despite a narrow five-run victory over Sri Lanka in their final Super Eight Group 2 match in Pallekele. 

Pakistan finished level on three poi...


News

"I have 11 dangerous players": Daren Sammy ahead of India vs West Indies clash

3 hrs ago

As the Super Eight stage of the T20 World Cup reaches a boiling point, there is huge anticipation ahead of the high-stakes showdown between India and the West Indies in Kolkata on Sunday. For both teams, it is a must-win game to book a spot in the semi-finals. And according to West Indies head coach Daren Sammy, the task at han...


News

Schedule confirmed for Australia women's tour of West Indies

4 hrs ago

Australia’s long-awaited return to the Caribbean will feature an all-white-ball assignment, with the anticipated historic Test match no longer part of the schedule. Cricket West Indies has unveiled the schedule for the tour, which begins on March 19. Instead of a multi-format series, the campaign will now have six limited-overs games as both teams begin prepara...


News

Sanath Jayasuriya set to leave role as Sri Lanka head coach

5 hrs ago

Sri Lanka's head coach, Sanath Jayasuriya, has indicated that he will step down from his role following the team's early exit from the ongoing T20 World Cup. His announcement came in the aftermath of a heartbreaking five-run defeat to Pakistan that sealed Sri Lanka’s elimination from the tournament. Speaking after the loss in Pallekele on Saturday, Jayasuriya revealed that he h...