Big Bash to go IPL way

Sydney: The forthcoming edition of Australia's domestic T20 cricket tournament -- Big Bash League (BBL) -- will witness an increase in the number of matches and duration when it kicks off on December 19 this year, Cricket Australia (CA) announced on Wednesday.

Compared to last year's 40 matches, the ensuing one will see 56 group matches. Each of the eight teams will play 14 matches before the knockout stage, a format on which the Indian Premier League (IPL) runs.