Big Bash League: Bat flip to replace coin toss for 2018-19

Big Bash League: Bat flip to replace coin toss for 2018-19

(FASTNEWS|COLOMBO) – A backyard cricket tradition will enjoy a comeback during the upcoming Australian Big Bash T20 competition.

The traditional pre-match coin toss will be replaced by a bat flip, meaning a move from ‘heads or tails’ to ‘hills or flats’.

BBL head Kim McConnie told it was just another step forward in the cricket revolution that has been part of the Big Bash for almost a decade.

“For me, it’s a great moment, which reflects what BB is about,” McConnie said.

“Some people don’t like the change, but I’d also challenge people to say when was the last time anyone watched the coin toss or really focussed on it to a great extent?

“Now we are making it much more relevant to families – we are creating a moment that is much more fitting for kids.”

Organisers have designed special ‘toss’ bats for the pre-match show – wary of back-heavy modern blades that might not fall with an even chance.

“I’ve got it from great authority at our [bat-maker] Kookaburra friends that this is a tested and weighted bat to deliver that equity,” McConnie said.

The away team captain will make the call and the bat must complete one full rotation before landing.