Australian News – Third umpire in every WBBL game, DRS increase

The WBBL will have a third umpire available for all matches for the first time and the expansion of the game where full DRS will be used in its tenth season.

There will also be an innings timer in place to bring the competition to BBL-like with 73 minutes available to bowl the first ball in the 20th over, otherwise a fielding penalty will be introduced requiring one extra fielder inside the circle.

In total, 33 of the 43 matches will have DRS and in the 10 matches without it the TV referee will be able to rule on decisions such as bumping and outs.

The DRS games will include a total of 23 broadcasts on seven channels and an additional 10 will come from the expansion of games produced entirely by Fox Sports as part of the reduced length of the tournament. It means 77% of games will have full DRS compared to 41% last season.

“A world-class competition requires world-class technology and innovation,” said Alistair Dobson, head of the Big Bash Le League. “We are delighted to deliver this with the extended DRS coverage to 33 matches, the availability of TV Umpire for all matches and the introduction of the Innings Timer.

“Expanding the availability of DRS was a priority for players and referees alike and will improve the viewing experience on TV.”

The tenth season of the WBBL begins on October 27 with a tripleheader. The defending champions, the Adelaide Strikers, will face the Brisbane Heat at the Adelaide Oval in a rematch of last season’s finals followed by the Melbourne Renegades against the Sydney Sixers at the same stadium. The Perth Scorchers then host the Melbourne Stars at the WACA.