Big Bash release new schedule ahead of "critical" season

The tournament is due to begin on December 13, and will run until February 4. The BBL has suffered a decline in attendances over recent seasons, while the quality of the league has also been called into question

Big Bash general manager Alistair Dobson has described the competition's new season as "critical" to the future success of the tournament after the fixtures were formally unveiled on Thursday.

The BBL has suffered a decline in attendances over recent seasons, while the quality of the league has also been called into question.

A bloated schedule has also been to blame, but Big Bash organisers hope to reinvigorate the event by having strong availability among Australia internationals, and high-calibre overseas involvement as a result of raised wages and a dedicated draft for imports, which will take place in mid-August. 

The tournament is due to begin on December 13, and will run until February 4.

^{The Big Bash returns in December [Getty Images]}

"We've been clear since the end of last season given the disruption of two years that rebounding really strongly this season is such a critical thing for us to achieve," Dobson told ESPNcricinfo. "This season is one of if not the most important seasons we've had in recent years."

"Right at the top of list was crowds and attendances at games. We are still learning broadly about what fans' behaviours are in terms of getting back to big sporting events. We are watching the winter codes really closely and hearing from them about the opportunities and challenges."

Three new venues will come into play - Albury, Cairns and North Sydney Oval - as the competitions is spread evenly around the country for the first time since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. 

^{The tournament is in need of a facelift [Getty Images]}

Hobart Hurricanes get their traditional Christmas Eve fixture, with Melbourne Renegades visiting the Blundstone Arena; Sydney Sixers face Melbourne Stars at the SCG on Boxing Day, while Adelaide Strikers go to Perth Scorchers; New Year's Eve sees Sydney Thunder face the Hurricanes at Albury and the Strikers entertain the Stars; and on New Year's Day the Renegades host the Scorchers, and the Gabba is the Stage for Brisbane Heat against the Sixers.

"We have certainly had one if not both eyes on how we can schedule a season that gives families, kids, and everyone who loves the BBL the chance to get back to the games," Dobson said.

"So that's certainly been our key priority along with all the other things we keep in mind, particularly around our broadcasters and club workloads."

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