TheBig Bash League is known for its different experiments which adds more excitement to the game of cricket. Now, ahead of the new season of the BBL and Women’s BBL in 2025-26, Cricket Australia came up with a new rule for the fans sitting in the stands. According to the new rule, the fans can take the ball with them if the batter hits it into the crowd.
The new BBL and WBBL rule is inspired by the game of baseball where the fans present in the crowd are allowed to take the ball with them if it comes to them. However, in BBL and WBBL, this rule will be applied in the first over of both the innings. The fans will be allowed to keep the ball even if it goes into the crowd through a six or bounce over the fence from a boundary.
“Player connection
drives the Big Bash Leagues, and this initiative further demonstrates our commitment to delivering fan-focused innovation. Building 'Keep the Ball' in collaboration with Westpac has been a priority since their onboarding, and we're thankful for their support to bring this unforgettable moment to life.” Alistair Dobson, CA’s executive general manager of the league, said as quoted in Cricket Winner.
Women’s BBL to kickstart on November 9, Men’s editions starts on December 14
The upcoming Big Bash League season will begin with the Women’s edition starting on November 9. The first match will be played between Brisbane Heat Women and Melbourne Renegades Women at Allan Border Field in Brisbane, while the final will be played on December 13.
Just a day after the end of Women’s BBL, the Men’s edition will kickstart with a match between Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers at Optus Stadium in Perth on December 14. The final of the Men’s Big Bash League 2025-26 will be played on January 25, 2026
