Big Bash League History Explained
The history of Australia's Big Bash League (BBL) — its founding, the teams, champions, and how it became one of cricket's premier T20 competitions.
How the Big Bash League Was Created
Cricket Australia launched the Big Bash League in 2011-12, replacing the earlier Twenty20 Big Bash which had been a state-based competition. The BBL adopted a city-franchise model inspired by the IPL and Indian domestic cricket, with eight teams representing Australian cities: Adelaide Strikers, Brisbane Heat, Hobart Hurricanes, Melbourne Renegades, Melbourne Stars, Perth Scorchers, Sydney Sixers, and Sydney Thunder.
BBL Champions
| Season | Champion | Runner-Up |
|---|---|---|
| BBL|01 (2011-12) | Sydney Sixers | Perth Scorchers |
| BBL|02 (2012-13) | Brisbane Heat | Perth Scorchers |
| BBL|03 (2013-14) | Perth Scorchers | Hobart Hurricanes |
| BBL|04 (2014-15) | Perth Scorchers | Sydney Sixers |
| BBL|07 (2017-18) | Adelaide Strikers | Hobart Hurricanes |
| BBL|09 (2019-20) | Sydney Sixers | Melbourne Stars |
| BBL|10 (2020-21) | Sydney Sixers | Perth Scorchers |
| BBL|11 (2021-22) | Perth Scorchers | Sydney Sixers |
| BBL|12 (2022-23) | Perth Scorchers | Brisbane Heat |
| BBL|14 (2024-25) | Hobart Hurricanes | Sydney Thunder |
| BBL|15 (2025-26) | Perth Scorchers | Sydney Sixers |
The BBL's Place in World Cricket
The BBL runs from December to February and attracts a significant number of international players during their off-season. Its timing — during the Australian summer and often overlapping with Australian school holidays — has made it a family-friendly event and one of the most-watched domestic T20 leagues outside India. The league has also served as a pathway for young Australian players to establish themselves before international selection.
Frequently asked questions
How many teams are in the Big Bash League?
Eight teams compete in the BBL: Adelaide Strikers, Brisbane Heat, Hobart Hurricanes, Melbourne Renegades, Melbourne Stars, Perth Scorchers, Sydney Sixers, and Sydney Thunder.
What are the BBL's broadcast rights?
In Australia the BBL is broadcast on Seven Network (free-to-air) and Fox Cricket (pay television). Internationally it is available through various streaming and broadcast deals. The free-to-air component has significantly boosted the league's domestic viewership.