On Wednesday Cricket Australia announced plans for a full 20-20 Big Bash League starting in December but mentioned that the schedule could be affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic.
The 10th BBL will begin on December 3 when the Adelaide Strikers host the Melbourne Renegades followed by 60 matches across the country & a final on February 6. The list will be followed by the Women’s Big Bash League which will be played from October 17 to November 29 means Cricket Australia will meet its commitments to broadcasters and will not face penalties for reduced content.
However, the schedule could face problems as interstate travel in Australia is restricted after Melbourne & Sydney experienced new coronavirus cases recently. Cricket Australia’s Big Bash Chief Alistair Dobson said that the league would follow public health advice & will adhere to health protocols to ensure the safety of public players & support staff.
“Scheduling in the time of coronavirus is not without its challenges, as we have seen,” said Dobson. There are factors outside the league itself which could impact (the schedule) at a later date.” Australia A tours & Cricket Australia XI games are on hold because of the coronavirus pandemic but the domestic Sheffield Shield & home International series are planned to go ahead, including a money-spinning four-Test series against India.
A decision is expected soon on whether the 20-20 World Cup which is to be held in Australia in October & November will be postponed or not.
