![BBL to introduce designated player rule [Source: @codesportsau/X.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1768544316528_BBLtointroduceIPLlikeimpactplayerrule.jpg?type=hq)
BBL to introduce designated player rule [Source: @codesportsau/X.com]
The BBL is in for a big shake-up. For the 2026-27 season, the Big Bash League will introduce its new “designated batter and designated fielder” rule, whereby teams can opt to select one player who only bats and another who only fields.
The move is aimed at keeping star players in the tournament for longer and adding a fresh tactical edge to the competition.
BBL to introduce designated batter and fielder rule
In a recent development, BBL officials confirmed that the new rule will come into effect from the 2026-27 season. Under this system, teams can nominate one player who will bat but not field and another who will field but not bat.
Neither of the designated players will be allowed to bowl, although the designated fielder can keep wickets.
The idea had been discussed for several seasons and is inspired by baseball’s designated hitter rule. The league hopes this change will help extend the careers of older batters and attract more high-profile names.
Players like Chris Lynn and Mitchell Marsh are seen as key beneficiaries, especially given their history with injuries and workload management
The rule could also tempt Test regulars such as Travis Head to feature more often. Head missed this season’s BBL after Australia’s Ashes campaign.
How does it connect to IPL’s Impact Player rule?
The BBL’s new rule has drawn immediate comparisons with the IPL’s Impact Player rule, introduced in 2023. While the two are different in structure, the philosophy is similar.
Both are designed to introduce flexibility, enhance entertainment factors, and facilitate teams to utilise specialists.
The IPL provides teams with an opportunity to change one player in the match, which allows them to include an additional batter or bowler, depending on the circumstances.
This was not possible before, and now teams are playing T20 matches differently, with an increase in the number of runs being scored.
The BBL’s approach is less radical but still significant. Instead of in-game substitutions, teams will decide their designated roles before the match.
It keeps the traditional flow of cricket intact while still offering tactical variety. For overseas players, especially those managing heavy international schedules, this could be a big incentive to sign up.
BBL 2025-26 season so far
Meanwhile, the ongoing BBL 2025-26 season has seen tons of action in the league stages. Hobart Hurricanes, Perth Scorchers and Melbourne Stars have made it to the knockouts with 13, 12 and 12 points, respectively.
Adelaide Strikers, Melbourne Renegades and Sydney Thunder are eliminated from the tournament, while Brisbane Heat and Sydney Sixers are still in the hunt for the final knockout spot.
Babar Azam, Steve Smith, Mohammad Rizwan, Travis Head and Mitchell Starc are a few of the big stars who have graced the BBL this year despite international commitments.
The Qualifier, Knockout and Challenger games will be held on January 20, 21 and 23, respectively, while the finale will be held on January 25.
