BBL: How does the innings timer work in Big Bash League?

Sydney Sixers and Perth Scorchers clashed in the opening game of the Big Bash League 2025-26.

The Big Bash League (BBL) is among the most entertaining and nail-biting franchise T20 leagues around the world. Australia’s franchise T20 tournament commenced in 2011, and its 15th edition is currently underway.

The current season, BBL 2025-26, commenced on Sunday, December 14, and is observing a battle between eight teams for the trophy.

Sydney Sixers, Perth Scorchers, Melbourne Renegades, Brisbane Heat, Sydney Thunder, Hobart Hurricanes, Adelaide Strikers, and Melbourne Stars are the eight franchises locking horns in the current edition.

The final is scheduled to be played on Sunday, January 25, 2026. Hobart Hurricanes are defending champions of the tournament as they crushed Sydney Thunder in the final of the previous edition by seven wickets.

Unlike the Indian Premier League (IPL), the BBL has different rules for the innings timer. In IPL tournaments, the bowling team has 90 minutes to complete their 20-over innings, which consists of 85 minutes of play and 5 minutes of strategic timeout. Moreover, bowling teams are also fined for slow-over rates.

How does the Big Bash League’s innings timer work?

According to the innings timer rule in the BBL, the fielding team has to complete their quota of 20 overs within 79 minutes. Additionally, the fielding team should be in a position to bowl the first delivery of the 20th over by 73 minutes of playing time.

If they fail to meet this deadline, an extra fielder will be required to be kept inside the 30-yard circle in the final over. Except for the powerplay overs, five players are allowed outside the 30-yard circle in the tournament.

A countdown clock, which is visible to fans and players, is displayed inside the stadium. If the clock runs down before the start of the final over, the fielding captain is informed by the umpire.

Then, an additional fielder has to be moved inside the 30-yard circle, which comes as a big disadvantage for the fielding side.

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