BBL set to introduce 'designated batters' from next season

The Big Bash League (BBL) is set to roll out a major change in rules ahead of the 16th edition of the league, with teams now allowed to nominate a designated batter and a designated fielder as part of their squad, a move aimed at adding tactical depth and more entertainment to Australia’s premier domestic T20 competition. 

Under the new rule, a team would be able to choose one player from their starting XI as a designated batter before the toss. That player will be allowed to bat during the innings

but won’t take the field or bowl, allowing teams to get the batter in without committing to full fielding duties.

If a designated batter is named, the side must also select a designated fielder, a player who will only field (and can act as wicketkeeper) but cannot bowl. At the change of innings, the designated batter swaps with the designated fielder, ensuring the team still has a full complement on the field. 

And if a team doesn’t want to use the rule and name a traditional playing XI, then they will be allowed to do so. The rule will only be implemented in men’s competition, and not in the WBBL. 

🚨 BIG NEWS ANNOUNCED FOR BBL|16 🚨 (1/2)#BBL15 pic.twitter.com/EYcsjwK3U6

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 15, 2026

Alistair Dobson, Cricket Australia's general manager of the Big Bash League, shared his thoughts and motives to add these rules to an already established competition. 

"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. 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," he said. 

"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,” Dobson concluded. 

The 15th edition of the Big Bash is currently underway, with Hobart Hurricanes topping the chart with 13 points in 10 games.