‘To try and keep some of our ageing stars’ - Ricky Ponting reacts to BBL’s new rule

Cricket Australia’s newly introduced ‘designated batter’ rule for BBL 16 has drawn strong reactions from some of Australia’s biggest names, with Australian great Ricky Ponting and star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell welcoming the change, believing it could attract more high-profile players and give youngsters a platform on the big stage. 

The Big Bash League's recently announced ‘designated batter’ rule will allow teams to name one designated batter before the contest. The batter will be able to bat, with his replacement player only allowed to field. He can also keep wickets, but won’t be allowed to bowl. 

Reacting to the newly-introduced concept in Australia’s premier T20 league, legendary Ricky Ponting, who is also commentating in the BBL, gave his take, stating the rule is partially aimed at keeping some of the league’s ageing stars like Chris Lynn in mind. 

“To me it seems to be introduced for a couple of reasons, to try and keep some of our ageing stars in the tournament a little bit longer, someone like a Chris Lynn and Mitch Marsh. And to be able to bring some of youngsters in the group and get them involved in the field,” he said on Channel 7.

Ponting also believes that a rule like this will allow some stalwarts like Travis Head to consider playing in the field, because they will not have to worry about a potential injury while fielding.

“The other way I think it could be used is for someone like Travis Head — a returning international player who has had a big summer already, I’m sure if you asked Heady now if you would like to turn up and bat only, and not worry about fielding to pick up an injury, that might appeal to him,” said Ponting.

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, who was standing beside the 51-year-old, too, gave his opinion. Maxwell focused on the positives, stating that it may give chance for a youngster fielding opportunities, which can act as a huge boost for them. 

“Certainly for a young player, I know when I got the experience to field with the Victorian side and not really have to bat or bowl, it was the highlight of my week to get the opportunity to be part of the state team,” he said.

The new rule will be implemented from the 16th edition of the league. It is designed exclusively for the men’s competition and won’t be used in WBBL.