It is instilled in every kid from a young age that a big shot over the fence is the best way to close out a game in the backyard, so it was only going to be a matter of time until an annual cricket tournament was based principally around that law.
Season 6 of the Big Bash is officially underway from tonight – six weeks of huge shots, impossible catches and a perfect excuse to end the day with sport on the TV.
Here’s twelve reasons why the Big Bash is THE SPORT of the Aussie summer!
Big Hits
Let’s face it, the best thing about the Big Bash is its namesake.
Complete crowd and fan interaction in a game that can be as lifeless as cricket can only be achieved when you have a bloke like Chris Lynn at the crease, absolutely teeing off on some poor bowler.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGHJF6jFvCA
Classic Catches
Historically, Aussies have always been the best in the field and the Big Bash is the only stage in the world where our blokes are complimented by the best internationals.
The league has become a breeding ground for acrobats and feats that are usually only seen when a trampoline is involved!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1dVYJU61EYs
Crowd Catches
When pretty much the only objective of the game is to clear the rope in the biggest way possible, some of the more stunning grabs that the Big Bash has seen through its five seasons so far have actually been taken by everyday punters.
One-handed takes are vital, as this bloke so calmly demonstrated.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xz9rwuiU4_c
Light Up Bails
If every reality cooking show on TV has taught us anything, it’s that theatre is everything, and the Big Bash has taken the idea to the next level.
Even the bails and stumps have been fitted out with a light show that would be the envy of any Oxford Street party in March and on more than one occasion, they have played a key role in the 3rd umpire’s job.
Stump Cam
If you’re anything like me and frequently think that you would have played a better shot than the professional standing at the crease, stump cam is one of those things that the Big Bash organisers have included for you.
There isn’t a more comprehensive way to get yourself right in on the action and still avoid an $8000 fine.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iNS2IbrnRmA
On-Field Microphones
One of the Big Bash’s unique functions which has the potential to go drastically wrong is the addition of microphones to players’ kits.
I’m sure that Cricket Australia is pleased that so far, the only thing that has been directly shared to the viewing public has been absolute genius like this:
Brad Hogg
The Big Bash has a spot for everyone and that is a great thing when you have heroes from yesteryear like Brad Hogg still kicking about.
The Big Bash provided grounds for Hogg to return from retirement, return to form and ultimately, return to the international fold.
Likeable Pommies
It is unwritten law for any Australian cricket fan to hate the English team, but with some of the players that the empire has produced and nit-picked from other commonwealth nations throughout the last 20 years, it has been difficult not to admire them.
What a relief that the Big Bash allows a credible excuse to cheer on Freddie Flintoff.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIm3dKzzYlI
Ridiculous Get-ups
It is a favourite Aussie pastime to make yourself look as ridiculous as possible at sport for some reason and the Big Bash has only strengthened the love affair.
Watermelon hats in particular have experienced something of a Gangnam Style-like cult following recently and it’s pretty clear to see why…
Sideline Interviews
Players are at their most vulnerable when they have just been dismissed, or when they have just delivered a four over spell that cost 90 runs.
Some of the best player comments have been taken immediately after a big, game-changing play by Ladbrokes’ own Roger Oldridge ;)
Rocket Man
Other than a perfectly-timed run of form back in season 2, the Big Bash has been something of a harsh hunting ground for the Brisbane Heat.
Good thing for the Gabba faithful that they have still been able to produce the most eye-catching sideshow of any team in the league!
Zooper Dooper Taking Wickets
Arguably the only thing more Australian than a day at the cricket is ripping the top off a Zoopa Dooper on a stinking hot day.
There hasn’t been a more convincing or perfect marriage than the Big Bash and Zoopa Dooper since Scott and Charlene made it official!
