BBL aims for pitch perfect future: Consultant on deck to boost run-fests

January 29, 2024

BBL aims for pitch perfect future: Consultant on deck to boost run-fests

The Big Bash League (BBL), Australia’s vibrant T20 tournament, is hitting the gas for its next season, with a critical focus on improving playing surfaces. Pitches that spark high-scoring thrillers are on the menu, and Cricket Australia is considering a dedicated pitch consultant to ensure every ground delivers.

This past summer’s shortened BBL saw crowds roar back in record numbers, a 27% increase over the previous season. But officials know the competition remains in a delicate stage, and pitches are a key piece of the puzzle. Venues like Marvel Stadium and Sydney Showground have drawn flak for low-scoring affairs, with the Showground being the tournament’s slowest ever this year.

Ricky Ponting’s scathing criticism of the Showground after a dour Sydney Thunder loss, calling it “substandard,” perfectly echoed the frustration of fans and players alike. However, the Thunder are firmly rooted in western Sydney, a crucial market for Cricket Australia, and relocation is off the table.

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The BBL brass, while tight-lipped about individual pitches, acknowledge their importance in keeping fans hooked. “High scores and close chases,” says BBL boss Alistair Dobson, “that’s the music to our ears.”

As competition for fan attention intensifies, ensuring world-class cricket becomes paramount. In Sydney, both the SCG and Showground lagged behind the BBL’s average run-rate of 8.25, while Adelaide and Hobart proved run-fests.

To bridge this gap, officials are exploring options like earlier installation of drop-in wickets at multi-purpose venues to give curators more time. A league-wide pitch consultant is also on the table, someone who will work with venues to tailor pitches for BBL’s high-octane brand of cricket.

“We’ve seen some cracking games this year,” says Dobson, “but weather and venue variety play a role. Ultimately, it’s about working with clubs and venues to understand the BBL’s needs and deliver.”

Beyond pitches, the BBL is considering other tweaks. Locking in overseas players for the finals, shortening the WBBL to 10 rounds, and installing third umpires for all women’s matches are also up for discussion.

The next season of the BBL promises to be an exciting blend of familiar favorites and innovative changes. With a renewed focus on high-scoring pitches and fan engagement, the BBL is ready to bat, bowl, and field its way back into the hearts of cricket fans across Australia.