The basics
- You pick batters, bowlers, all-rounders and a keeper under a cap across a short, dense season.
- Every match is 20 overs, so scores swing wildly week to week.
- Availability changes fast with international call-ups and overseas players arriving late.
How scoring works
- Runs, boundaries, wickets, maidens, catches and run-outs all score; ducks and expensive overs hurt.
- All-rounders are gold because they have two ways to score in every game.
- Top-order batters and front-line bowlers get the most opportunity.
Strategy that actually moves the needle
- Own players with guaranteed roles: openers and bowlers who get four overs.
- Track the international schedule — a departing star is a wasted slot.
- Accept the variance and chase volume of opportunity rather than one big score.
Your first week
- Load up on all-rounders early.
- Check squad lists for late-arriving overseas signings.
- Keep trades in reserve — the BBL punishes locked-in teams.