Cricket Australia cuts down BBL matches to 40 from this season, here's why

Cricket Australia (CA) on Friday announced their decision to reduce the number of matches in the Big Bash League.

BBL would be reduced to 10 games per franchise a year earlier than planned after reaching an agreement with broadcasters. CA confirmed that the reduction from 56 to 40 regular-season games will take effect this season.

The playoffs will also be altered, with 4 teams qualifying instead of 5, and a 4-match finals format yet to be determined. The tournament schedule is expected to be released in July, with matches beginning in December.

'A shortened BBL will allow us greater flexibility to ensure we can deliver the best possible fixture for clubs and fans while providing a platform that allows players to continue to produce the world-class levels of cricket we've seen over the duration of the tournament,' BBL general manager Alistair Dobson stated.

However, Women's Big Bash will remain unchanged from its 59-game season.

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