Picture Credit: BBL
The Big Bash League has confirmed the implementation of the Decision Review System (DRS) for both the men's and women's competitions for the 2022-23 season. The league today announced DRS will be available in all BBL and WBBL matches. Meanwhile, the Bash Boost point and X-Factor have been removed. Another addition will be the Power Surge which will be included in the WBBL for the first time.
A BBL exclusive change will be the introduction of an innings clock according to which the teams will need to complete their 20 overs in 79 minutes. If not, a penalty of only having four fielders outside the circle for the remainder of the innings will be implemented. The DRS was set to make an appearance last season but because of international and state border closures, the technology was not implemented last year.
Big Bash Leagues General Manager Alistair Dobson expressed elation and excitement about the introduction of DRS to the BBL and WBBL. "The league is delighted to introduce DRS to every BBL game and the 24 simulcast Weber WBBL games, in line with the very best cricket competitions in the world," Dobson said.
"Implementing DRS has been a challenging task for the BBL, which is the most logistically complex T20 league in the world. That, plus the impact of the pandemic on travel and movement, has meant the technology has not been possible to introduce until this season.
He also addressed the removal of the Bash point and X-factor along with some other additions. He stated, "Additionally, the league is pleased with the outcomes of the wider Playing Conditions review process, with the introduction of the Power Surge to WBBL and the BBL innings clock both major wins for fans.
"We retain a clear desire to innovate and drive our leagues forward but are also willing to review decisions that have not realised the intended positive impact, such as the Bash Boost point and X-Factor substitution."