What is the proposed 'designated hitter' rule for the BBL?

The BBL is considering a rule allowing teams to pick a batter who can be substituted mid-game for a specialist fielder.

Why does Sam Billings dislike the new BBL rule?

Sam Billings believes the proposed rule will eliminate strategic choices in team selection and devalue all-rounders.

How is the BBL's proposed rule different from the IPL's Impact Player?

The BBL's rule would allow a batter substitution for a fielder, while the IPL's Impact Player can be used for batting or bowling at any point.

Home / Sports / Billings Blasts BBL's DH Rule: 'Kills All-Rounders!'

Billings Blasts BBL's DH Rule: 'Kills All-Rounders!'

21 Dec, 2025

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Summary

BBL considers a 'designated hitter' rule, similar to MLB.
Sam Billings criticizes the proposed rule, fearing it will devalue all-rounders.
The rule would allow a batter to be replaced by a specialist fielder.

Billings Blasts BBL's DH Rule: 'Kills All-Rounders!'

The Big Bash League (BBL) is exploring a significant rule change for the upcoming season, with reports indicating the introduction of a 'designated hitter' (DH) system. This proposed innovation, akin to Major League Baseball's approach, would permit teams to name a dedicated batter who could later be substituted by a specialist fielder during the match.

The move has already drawn sharp criticism from prominent players like Sam Billings. He expressed concerns that the DH rule could fundamentally alter team strategy, diminishing the nuanced decision-making involved in selecting a balanced XI and potentially reducing the value of all-round cricketers.

This potential shift follows previous experimental rules, such as the X-Factor player, which did not achieve desired results. The BBL's decision will be closely watched, especially as it aims to enhance the league's appeal against competitors like the Indian Premier League's Impact Player rule.