The Big Bash League (BBL) is Australia’s premier T20 cricket tournament that features eight teams from different cities. The BBL is known for its high-octane action, thrilling finishes, and star-studded line-ups. But did you know that the BBL is also very popular among Indian cricket fans? In this blog post, we will explore the success of Big Bash League in India and what makes it one of the pillars for people who love cricket.
The BBL offers quality Cricket Entertainment
One of the main reasons why Indians love the BBL is because it offers quality cricket entertainment. The BBL matches are fast-paced, competitive, and unpredictable. The teams are well-balanced and have some of the best players from around the world. The BBL also has some unique features that add to the excitement, such as the power surge, the X-factor player, and the bash boost.
The power surge is a two-over period during which the batting team can choose to have only two fielders outside the 30-yard circle. This gives them an opportunity to score more runs and put pressure on the bowlers. The X-factor player is a substitute who can replace any player who has not batted or bowled more than one over after the 10th over of the first innings. This allows the teams to change their strategy and tactics according to the situation. The bash boost is a bonus point that is awarded to the team with the higher score at the end of the 10th over of each innings. This encourages the teams to be more aggressive and chase higher targets.
These features make the BBL matches more engaging and entertaining for the viewers, especially for Indians who love T20 cricket.
The BBL showcases Emerging Talent and International Stars
Another reason why Indians love the BBL is because it showcases emerging talent and international stars. The BBL gives a platform for young and talented players from Australia and other countries to showcase their skills and potential. Some of these players have gone on to represent their national teams and become household names in world cricket.
For example, Josh Philippe, who plays for Sydney Sixers, was named as the player of the tournament in BBL 2020-21 after scoring 508 runs in 16 matches. He made his debut for Australia in T20Is against New Zealand in 2021 and scored a half-century in his second match. Another example is Rashid Khan, who plays for Adelaide Strikers, who is widely regarded as one of the best spinners in T20 cricket. He has taken 85 wickets in 62 matches in BBL at an economy rate of 6.37. He is also a key member of Afghanistan’s national team and has played in various T20 leagues around the world.
The BBL also attracts some of the biggest names in international cricket, such as Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers, Andre Russell, David Warner, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, and many more. These players bring their experience, charisma, and flair to the BBL and make it more appealing and attractive for the fans.
The BBL has a Strong Connection with India
A third reason why Indians love the BBL is because it has a strong connection with India. The BBL has a large fan base in India, thanks to its broadcast partnership with Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI). SPNI has been airing the BBL matches live on its sports channels and digital platforms since 2017. According to SPNI, the BBL viewership in India grew by 67% in 2020-21 compared to 2019-201.
The BBL also has a cultural connection with India, as it celebrates Indian festivals and events during its season. For instance, in 2020-21, the BBL celebrated Diwali by lighting up stadiums with fireworks and lanterns. The BBL also celebrated India’s Republic Day by playing the Indian national anthem before a match between Sydney Thunder and Adelaide Strikers. The BBL also pays tribute to Indian legends such as Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni by naming some of its awards after them.
The BBL also has a social connection with India, as it supports various causes and initiatives that are relevant to India. For example, in 2020-21, the BBL partnered with UNICEF Australia to raise funds for children affected by COVID-19 in India. The BBL also supported Cricket Australia’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), which aims to promote inclusion and diversity in cricket. The RAP was inspired by former Australian cricketer Jason Gillespie, who has Aboriginal and Indian heritage.]
How to Watch Big Bash League In India?
One option is to watch BBL on TV channels. Sony Sports Network has the broadcasting rights for Big Bash League in India. You can watch BBL matches live on Sony Six, Sony Six HD, Sony Ten 1, and Sony Ten 3 channels.
Another option is to watch Big Bash League in India online on OTT platforms. Sony Liv, Jio TV, and Airtel XStream are some of the apps that offer live streaming of Big Bash League in India. You can subscribe to these apps and enjoy BBL on your laptop, mobile, or TV.
A third option is to watch BBL on websites that provide live scores and updates. Some of the websites that cover BBL are ESPNcricinfo, Cricket World, and Wisden. You can follow these websites for the latest news, analysis, and commentary on BBL.
So reassured that even you are thousand miles away from Australia you can still enjoy Big Bash League in India.
Conclusion
The BBL is one of the most popular and successful T20 cricket tournaments in the world. It is also one of the most loved by Indians, who enjoy its quality, variety, and connection. The BBL is one of the pillars for people who love cricket, as it offers them a lot of entertainment, excitement, and inspiration.
If you are a cricket fan, you should definitely watch the BBL and follow your favorite teams and players. You can also learn more about the BBL by visiting its official website or following its social media accounts.
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