Cricket Australia introduced 3 new rules for Big Bash League's 2020-21 season

Cricket Australia's Big Bash League is one of the most exciting cricket tournaments in the world after IPL. In the 10th edition of the BBL, Cricket Australia has the potential to completely change the dynamics of the game by implementing three exclusive new rules starting this season.

The new rules are Power Surge, X-Factor Player, and Bash Boost. These rules will raise interest in the tournament's 2020-21 season which will begin on December 10 amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Power Surge
Power Surge is only dividing the power play. After implementing this rule, the required power play will be reduced to the first 4 overs instead of the first 6 overs. The batting team may use the 2-overs "Power Surge" at any time after the 10th over, in which the fielding setup will be the same as the first 4 overs.

X-Factor Player
A new replacement / substitution rule will also be implemented. Each team has the ability to change strategy with 10 over mark in the first inning and can substitute an X-Factor player in place of one player. The 12th and 13th player of each team can be brought in beyond the 10th over in the first inning and can replace players who have not yet batted or bowled more than an over.

Bash Boost
Bash boost is the bonus points given to the team in the middle of second innings. Bash Boost is a special reward for the chasing team. The chasing team will receive bonus points if they exceed the opponent's score equivalent of 10 overs and if they are behind, the fielding side will receive points. Each team has a chance to earn 4 points from this season, 3 points for a win and 1 point for bash boost if they make it in 10 overs. 

Apart from their usual points system, the league will offer the winning team 3 points instead of 2 points. In other words, the team that gets the bonus points will get 4 points at the end of the game if they cross the opponent's 10 over score mark.

The new set of rules has also been introduced to increase the pressure on bowlers and coaches for decision making, but will inevitably drive the game further away from bowlers.

Alistair Dobson, Cricket Australia’s Head of Big Bash Leagues, said, "The introduction of these new innovations is yet another reason why the KFC BBL 10 seasons is set up to be the most exciting in the League’s history. The Power Surge, X-Factor, and Bash Boost prioritize scoring, exciting cricket, introduce new strategic angles and ensure there’s always something to play for throughout the entire match. We’re confident our fans will love what these innovations bring to the game as many of the world’s top T20 players, plus our next generation of Australian stars, bring them to life on the field."