According to a report by the Sydney Morning Herald, Cricket Australia is considering major rule changes for the Big Bash League to enhance the entertainment value for fans. One proposed change is the introduction of a designated hitter, similar to baseball, where a player specializing in batting would be included in the XI. This would allow star batters to conserve energy for explosive performances with the bat. Additionally, teams would also select a specialist fielder under this new rule.
Another potential change being discussed is the implementation of double plays on runouts, where both players would be dismissed if they are out of their crease and the bails are taken off at both ends. However, the possibility of applying double plays to catches and runouts is considered unlikely.
Furthermore, there are talks of reducing the number of end changes during a match to speed up the game and limit player fatigue. This would involve teams bowling 12 balls from one end before swapping, and captains could allow one player to bowl 12 consecutive deliveries over two overs. This rule change is seen as the most likely to be approved if all stakeholders agree.
In addition, suggestions have been made to make maidens more exciting, such as awarding a batter out if they face six dot balls in a row or giving a bowler a fifth over if they bowl a maiden. These proposed changes aim to make the Big Bash League more fast-paced and appealing to both fans and players.
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