Big Bash season set to reach greater heights
AUSTRALIA’S high-octane Big Bash League launches its seventh season today with the whiz-bang Twenty20 cricket league looking to build on attendance and television ratings successes, with Perth Scorchers favourites to win another crown.
More than 1 million people went to BBL matches last season, with average crowds topping 30,000.
While it trails the Indian Premier League in overall attendance and financial clout, officials claim it was the fifth-biggest league in the world last season in terms of people turning up to watch.
Big Bash head Kim McConnie said Cricket Australia had even higher expectations for the fast-paced, familyfriendly competition that sold out 35 matches last year. There will be eight more fixtures, up to 43, and four new venues around the country.
“We believe this is going to be one of the most exciting BBL seasons to date,” said McConnie, just two months into her job as the new BBL chief.
“Sport ort is entertainment, so what we’re seeing, even from a cricket et purist who loves to watch h the Big Bash because they love ove the competition, they also like ike the entertainment and the fact act they can bring their kids.
“They hey want to be entertained and make sure they’re getting more for their dollar.”
In glitzy style, BBL has led the way with LED stumps ps and bails f l a s h i n g o n impact. ct. They also have helmet cameras on batsmen, and in n recent sea- sons players have worn microphones to talk to comment commentators during play.
F Former Engl a n d c a p t a i n Kevin Pietersen got himself into trouble last season w when he was charged and fin fined for criticising an umpi umpire’s decision while wearing a microphone on-field.
Explosive hitters
Reigning cham champions Perth Scorchers are hot favourites f for their fourth crown, wh while Melbourne Stars, featuring polaris polarising batsman Pietersen, are chasing their the elusive first title after several years of o near misses. The Scorchers have m maintained the bulk of their squad from last year’s triumphant season and are likely to again contend for glory with coach Justin Langer again at the helm and English all-rounder David Willey as their overseas import.
Brisbane Heat, who finished second in the regular competition last season, possesses two explosive hitters, with local Chris Lynn, who leads the BBL’s six tally with 94, and retired New Zealand star Brendon McCullum.
The Sydney Sixers, crushed by the Scorchers in last season’s final, again have big-hitting Englishman Jason Roy as their overseas player, with Test bowlers Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon.
Skipper Aaron Finch leads the underperforming Melbourne Renegades, who have boom-hitting West Indian Kieran Pollard, currently on international duty, on their books.
Sydney Thunder have former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson (pictured, AFP) backing up for another season aged 36. The final takes place on February 4.