What is the Big Bash League?
The Big Bash League is Australia's professional domestic Twenty20 cricket competition, launched in 2011. It runs during the summer holidays and features eight city-based teams playing fast, entertaining cricket.
The BBL was created by Cricket Australia to replace an earlier state-based Twenty20 competition. The eight teams include two from Sydney and two from Melbourne, as well as teams from Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Hobart.
The teams are the Sydney Sixers, Sydney Thunder, Melbourne Stars, Melbourne Renegades, Brisbane Heat, Adelaide Strikers, Perth Scorchers and Hobart Hurricanes.
Summer entertainment
The BBL is designed for families, with fireworks, music and short games that fit into an evening. Matches are played from December to January, during school holidays.
The Perth Scorchers have been the most successful team, winning several titles. The competition has attracted many international players and helped develop young Australian talent.
The Women's Big Bash League, launched in 2015, has become one of the world's leading women's cricket competitions. Together, the leagues have helped grow cricket's popularity among younger fans.
Did You Know?
BBL matches are played with colorful uniforms and often at night under lights.