Big Bash League to expand in season Seven

The ongoing success of cricket’s Big Bash League will see the competition incorporate an extra eight matches in season seven.

As a result, next summer’s BBL will see 40 regular season matches played, up from 32 this season.

The change will see each of the eight clubs will play 10 matches, five home games and five away games, up from the current four and four.

It is unknown if the increase in fixtures affects the price of the broadcast rights to the BBL as commercial broadcasters prepare to battle to secure the successful summer competition.

In a statement, BBL Chief Executive Anthony Everard advised “we’re always looking at opportunities to grow the game and expand our fan base beyond traditional markets and demographics.

“The scheduling of the additional eight matches in a manner that complements the existing regular season fixture is aimed at encouraging more people to pick up a bat and ball and give cricket a go.”

Everard also suggested that consideration is being given to taking extra games to new venues outside the traditional stadiums that currently host matches.

He added “we haven’t yet finalised the locations of these additional matches yet, but we are working closely with clubs to explore options.

“A state-by-state approach will be taken to determine the most appropriate location to host this additional fixture, taking into account aspects including existing contractual obligations, participation and fan growth opportunities, and venue infrastructure.

“The opportunity to expand matches into non-traditional markets is not just limited to the men’s game. We are working to see how we can also schedule Women’s Big Bash League matches in these new venues, once they are finalised.”

Everard also commented plans to increase the number of BBL teams entering the league, with reported interest coming from Canberra and Fremantle, concluding “at present, there are no plans to increase the number of teams in the league in the immediate future, but we remain open minded about future expansion plans.”

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