Since the inception, the Big Bash League is one of the most critical elements of the Australian cricket. The growth of the BBL and the increased popularity has assisted it in getting more attention from the viewers across the globe. The tournament has caught the attention of a big audience base and has recorded several memorable moments over the course of years for the viewers and the players to be remembered by.
But there have also been some controversies in the domestic T20 league, which have somewhat damaged the tournament’s reputation. In our article, we examine five of the most significant disputes in the background of the prestigious domestic event.
1. Johan Botha is Punished for Expressing Disapproval
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Players frequently become animated during the final moments of a cliff-hanger. They violate the law and, as a result, suffer the consequences. The Sydney Sixers encountered numerous difficulties during their matchup with the Brisbane Heat in the semi-final game of the previous season. Only a few wickets were left as the team captained by Moises Henriques needed 19 runs off 12 balls.
Johan Botha, however, stomped out and smashed three goals in the penultimate over to put the Sixers back in the game. When four runs were needed off of three balls, he attempted to play a reverse pull off Ben Cutting but instead feathered the ball to the keeper.
The ball appeared to have touched Botha’s biceps despite the umpire raising his finger, according to the replay. The South African objected to the ruling because it surprised them. He eventually left in disappointment. The match referee consequently assessed him a $2500 fine.
2. The Duckworth/Lewis Controversy Between the Melbourne Stars and Perth Scorchers
2012’s Melbourne Stars vs. Perth Scorchers matchup in the group stage was marred by controversy. The Stars exploded to 29 runs off of two overs after Lasith Malinga bowled a bowling masterclass that saw the Scorchers destroyed for 69 runs. The game eventually resumed at 7:52 p.m. local time after a brief rain delay.
The uncertainty arose following the revised target of six runs in five overs. Generally speaking, a game consists of at least five overs from each side. But after just five overs, the Stars had already surpassed their goal.
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3. Pietersen’s Rejection to Face Pollard at Bat
When it comes to controversy, both Kevin Pietersen and Kieron Pollard have garnered media attention throughout their respective careers. In the previous Big Bash League season, they got into a little friendly banter before Melbourne Stars’ match against Adelaide Strikers.
Kevin was batting on 19 runs during the Stars’ run chase when he noticed a tape on Pollard’s right hand. The English cricketer then requested that the bowler take it away from him because it was annoying him. As an explanation, Pollard claimed that he used it to shield his battered hand.
4. Samuels-Warne Slugfest
One of the ugliest fights on a cricket field was the on-field altercation between Marlon Samuels and Shane Warne. Samuels grabbed David Hussey during the Stars’ innings as the Victorian tried to score a second run. After that, the Australian leg-spinner approached him to inform him of his behaviour.
Samuels was criticized by Warne for his unsportsmanlike behaviour while the Renegades were pursuing them on foot. Warne was overheard on the microphones. When he came to strike in the next over, the resentments were at their peak.
5. Mel McLaughlin and Chris Gayle‘s interview
Chris Gayle is well-known for adopting an arrogant and eccentric demeanour both on and off the field. Over the course of his illustrious cricket career, these characteristics have gotten him into quite a few controversies. During the Big Bash League’s 2015–16 season, a controversy erupted.
He was interviewed by Mel McLaughlin, a reporter for Network Ten, during a match between the Hobart Hurricanes and Melbourne Renegades. In the course of the conversation, Gayle surprised the reporter on live television by asking him to accompany him on a drink-outing.
The Big Bash League has grown to be a significant component of Cricket Australia. The Australian national team has received some of the best players from it. A healthy amount of competition is created in the BBL thanks to the league’s mix of young and seasoned players.
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