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Big Bash League Winners List & Runners-Up: All Seasons’ History


Cricket is a big part of Australian sports, and the Big Bash League (BBL) has grown into one of the most exciting T20 tournaments. Since it started in 2011, BBL has given fans thrilling matches, last-over finishes, and unforgettable finals. Every season, teams battle for the BBL trophy, creating some of the best moments in short-format cricket.

This article brings you a detailed Big Bash League Winners List from 2011 to 2025, along with runners-up, key match highlights, and major records. Whether you’re a long-time BBL follower or just looking for a quick breakdown of past winners, this guide covers it all.

Let's take a look at every BBL champion and how they won their title!

Table of Contents

BBL Format & How It Has Changed Over the Years

The Big Bash League (BBL) started in 2011 as Australia’s official franchise-based T20 cricket tournament. Over the years, the format has changed to make the competition more exciting and competitive. Let’s break down how the tournament works and the changes that have shaped the league.


BBL Tournament Format: How It Works

From its early years to today, the BBL format has seen some key modifications. Here’s how the tournament is structured:

1. League Stage

  • Teams: 8 teams compete in a round-robin format.
  • Matches: Each team plays 10 matches (before 2018-19, it was 8 matches).
  • Points System:
    • Win = 2 points
    • Loss = 0 points
    • Bash Boost Point (Bonus point given mid-match based on team performance).
    • Super Over decides tied matches in knockout rounds.

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2. Playoff Stage (Introduced in 2019-20)

The BBL Finals format changed from a simple semi-final/final system to a five-match playoff structure for better competition:

  1. The Eliminator – 4th vs. 5th place teams (Winner moves forward).
  2. The Qualifier – 1st vs. 2nd place teams (Winner goes straight to the final).
  3. The Knockout – 3rd place vs. Winner of The Eliminator.
  4. The Challenger – Loser of The Qualifier vs. Winner of The Knockout.
  5. The Final – Winner of The Qualifier vs. Winner of The Challenger.

This system gives top teams a second chance, making it fairer and more competitive.

Major Format Changes in BBL History

 2011-12 to 2017-18:

  • 8 teams, 8 matches per team.
  • Top 4 teams qualify for semi-finals.
  • Straight knockout format (Semi-finals → Final).

 2018-19 Season:

  • Increased matches: 10 games per team.
  • Finals played at the home ground of the highest-ranked team.

 2019-20 Season:

  • Introduction of 5-team Playoff Format for a more competitive finals structure.

 2020-21 Season: (New rules added to make games more dynamic)

  • Power Surge: Traditional 6-over powerplay replaced with 4 overs upfront, and 2 overs taken later by the batting team.
  • X-Factor Player: A player can be substituted after 10 overs if they haven't batted or bowled more than one over.
  • Bash Boost Point: The team with the highest score at the 10-over mark gets an extra point.

2022–23 Season:

  • Introduction of the International Player Draft: The BBL implemented an international draft system, allowing teams to select overseas players in a structured manner. This change aimed to enhance the league's competitiveness by attracting a diverse pool of international talent.

  • Removal of the Bash Boost Point and X-Factor Substitution: To simplify the game's rules and improve clarity for fans and players, the league discontinued the Bash Boost point (a bonus point awarded at the 10-over mark) and the X-Factor substitution (which allowed teams to substitute a player midway through the match).

  • Implementation of the Decision Review System (DRS): For the first time, the BBL introduced DRS, granting each team one review per innings. This addition aimed to reduce umpiring errors and ensure fair play.

2023–24 Season:

  • Reduction in Season Length: Responding to feedback regarding the extensive duration of previous seasons, the BBL shortened the tournament. Each team played 10 regular-season matches, facing three teams twice and four teams once, resulting in a total of 40 regular-season games and four finals. This adjustment aimed to maintain fan interest and reduce player fatigue.

  • Modification of the Finals Structure: The league reverted to a top-four finals format, retaining a double chance for the top two teams. The finals series included:
    • Qualifier: 1st vs. 2nd
    • Knockout: 3rd vs. 4th
    • Challenger: Loser of the Qualifier vs. Winner of the Knockout
    • Final: Winner of the Qualifier vs. Winner of the Challenger

  • This structure aimed to reward top-performing teams while maintaining competitive balance.

2024–25 Season:

  • Further Reduction in Matches: The season featured a total of 44 matches, including 40 group-stage games and four finals. Each team played 10 group-stage matches, ensuring a more streamlined and engaging tournament.

  • Introduction of Player Movement Windows: Cricket Australia established a 10-day player movement window post-season, akin to trade periods in other sports. This allowed teams to trade players, sign rivals' players in the final year of their contracts, and trade overseas player draft positions, fostering strategic team management and fan engagement.

  • Ongoing Discussions on Further Innovations: The league explored additional changes, such as introducing baseball-style designated hitters and double-play run-outs, to enhance the game's excitement and strategic depth.

Why These Changes Matter

These format updates have made the BBL more competitive, strategic, and exciting.

  • More matches = More entertainment for fans.
  • The playoff system allows top teams a fairer chance at reaching the final.
  • New rules like Power Surge and Bash Boost encourage aggressive play.

The BBL continues to adapt, making sure the tournament stays fast-paced and unpredictable.

Season-by-Season Big Bash League Winners List & Runners-Up (2011–2025)

The Big Bash League (BBL) has seen thrilling finals, surprise champions, and dominant teams over the years. Below is the complete season-by-season breakdown of BBL winners list and runners-up from 2011 to 2025, along with key match highlights.

Big Bash League Winners List & Runners-Up (2011–2025)

Here’s a quick reference table showcasing all BBL champions, runners-up, and final match venues:

SeasonWinnerRunner-UpFinal VenueKey Highlights
2011-12Sydney SixersPerth ScorchersWACA Ground, PerthMoises Henriques starred as Sydney Sixers won the inaugural BBL title.
2012-13Brisbane HeatPerth ScorchersWACA Ground, PerthJoe Burns' match-winning knock led Brisbane Heat to their first title.
2013-14Perth ScorchersHobart HurricanesWACA Ground, PerthCraig Simmons hit the fastest BBL century (39 balls).
2014-15Perth ScorchersSydney SixersManuka Oval, CanberraYasir Arafat’s final over heroics sealed back-to-back wins for Perth.
2015-16Sydney ThunderMelbourne StarsMCG, MelbourneMike Hussey’s farewell season ended with Thunder’s first title.
2016-17Perth ScorchersSydney SixersWACA Ground, PerthScorchers dominated, chasing down 144 in just 15 overs.
2017-18Adelaide StrikersHobart HurricanesAdelaide Oval, AdelaideTravis Head’s unbeaten 85 off 44 secured the Strikers’ maiden title.
2018-19Melbourne RenegadesMelbourne StarsMarvel Stadium, MelbourneAn incredible collapse by Stars (7 wickets for 19 runs) handed Renegades their first win.
2019-20Sydney SixersMelbourne StarsSCG, SydneyRain-shortened final saw Sixers win under the DLS method.
2020-21Sydney SixersPerth ScorchersSCG, SydneyJames Vince’s 95* powered Sixers to back-to-back titles.
2021-22Perth ScorchersSydney SixersMarvel Stadium, MelbourneLaurie Evans’ unbeaten 76 off 41 balls sealed Scorchers' 4th title.
2022-23Perth ScorchersBrisbane HeatOptus Stadium, PerthAshton Turner’s captain’s knock helped chase 176 with 4 balls left.
2023-24Brisbane HeatSydney SixersThe Gabba, BrisbaneBrisbane Heat won their second title, beating Sydney Sixers by 54 runs. Spencer Johnson was named Player of the Match with 4/26.
2024-25Hobart HurricanesSydney ThunderBellerive Oval, HobartHobart Hurricanes won their first BBL title, chasing 183 in 14.1 overs, with Mitchell Owen's 108 off 42 balls..

Key Moments from BBL Finals Over the Years

1. Sydney Thunder’s Fairytale Win (2015-16)

Sydney Thunder finished last in BBL04 but came back stronger in BBL05, winning their first-ever title. Led by Mike Hussey and a young Usman Khawaja, Thunder’s batting lineup fired in the final, taking down Melbourne Stars.

2. Melbourne Renegades’ Stunning Comeback (2018-19)

Melbourne Stars were cruising in the chase, needing 53 off 43 balls with 10 wickets in hand. But a sudden batting collapse saw them lose 7 wickets for 19 runs, gifting Renegades their first BBL title.

3. Perth Scorchers’ Dominance (2021-22 & 2022-23)

The Scorchers became the most successful BBL team, winning their 4th and 5th titles in back-to-back seasons. Ashton Turner played match-winning innings in both finals, cementing his reputation as a big-game player.

4. Rain Drama at SCG (2019-20)

The BBL09 final was heavily affected by rain, reducing the game to 12 overs per side. Sydney Sixers took full advantage of home conditions, restricting Melbourne Stars and securing the trophy under DLS rules.

5. James Vince’s Masterclass (2020-21)

Sydney Sixers opener James Vince played a blistering 95 not out, taking down Perth Scorchers almost single-handedly. The English batter’s knock remains one of the best in BBL final history.

What’s Next for BBL?

With the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons still ahead, cricket fans are eager to see:

  • Can Perth Scorchers extend their dominance?
  • Will Sydney Sixers regain their title-winning form?
  • Can an underdog like Hobart Hurricanes or Brisbane Heat rise to the top?

The BBL continues to grow in popularity, and upcoming seasons promise more action-packed cricket!

Also Read : Top challenges in Australian grassroots cricket

Most Successful Teams in BBL History

Since its inception in 2011, the Big Bash League (BBL) has seen several teams dominate the competition. Some have lifted multiple trophies, while others have struggled to go all the way. This section highlights the most successful teams in BBL history, analyzing their championship wins, consistency, and standout performances.

BBL Teams with the Most Titles

TeamBBL Titles WonWinning Seasons
Perth Scorchers52013–14, 2014–15, 2016–17, 2021–22, 2022–23
Sydney Sixers32011–12, 2019–20, 2020–21
Brisbane Heat22012–13, 2023–24
Hobart Hurricanes12024–25
Sydney Thunder12015–16
Adelaide Strikers12017–18
Melbourne Renegades12018–19

Players Who Made History in BBL Finals

The BBL finals have produced some of the most iconic performances in Australian T20 history. Some players thrived under pressure, delivering match-winning knocks, clutch bowling spells, and unforgettable moments when it mattered most.

This section highlights players who made history in BBL finals, changing the course of their teams and leaving a lasting impact on the tournament.

BBL01 Final (2011-12) – Moises Henriques (Sydney Sixers)

BBL Title: 2011-12
Performance: 70 off 41 balls (7 fours, 2 sixes)
Opponent: Perth Scorchers

Moises Henriques led Sydney Sixers to victory in the first-ever BBL final. His all-round effort helped Sixers defeat Perth Scorchers comfortably.

  • Scored 70 off 41 balls, setting up a winning total.
  • Took one wicket and made a key run-out in the field.
  • Led from the front as Sixers became the first BBL champions.

Impact: Started Sydney Sixers’ dominance in BBL history.

BBL02 Final (2012-13) – Ben Cutting (Brisbane Heat)

BBL Title: 2012-13
Performance: 39 off 18 balls & 2/35
Opponent: Perth Scorchers

Ben Cutting produced one of the best all-round performances in a BBL final. Playing for Brisbane Heat in BBL02, he turned the match with both bat and ball.

  • Quickfire 39 off 18 balls helped Brisbane post a strong total.
  • Took two key wickets, including Shaun Marsh, the Scorchers' best batter.
  • Controlled the death overs, preventing a Scorchers comeback.

Impact: Played a match-winning role as Brisbane Heat won their first and only BBL title.

BBL03 Final (2013-14) – Craig Simmons (Perth Scorchers)

BBL Title: 2013-14
Performance: 112 off 58 balls (8 fours, 11 sixes)
Opponent: Hobart Hurricanes

Craig Simmons played a brutal innings in the final, helping the Scorchers win their first title.

  • Blasted a century in just 39 balls, setting a BBL record at the time.
  • Dominated the Hurricanes’ bowling attack, ensuring a big total.

Impact: Helped Perth Scorchers win their maiden BBL title.

BBL04 Final (2014-15) – Yasir Arafat (Perth Scorchers)

BBL Title: 2014-15
Performance: 3/25 in 4 overs
Opponent: Sydney Sixers

Yasir Arafat delivered a brilliant spell in the final, defending a low total and securing back-to-back titles for the Scorchers.

  • Bowled a match-winning final over under pressure.
  • Took three key wickets, restricting the Sixers' chase.

Impact: Secured Perth Scorchers' second BBL title.

BBL05 Final (2015-16) – Usman Khawaja (Sydney Thunder)

BBL Title: 2015-16
Performance: 70 off 40 balls (5 fours, 3 sixes)
Opponent: Melbourne Stars

Usman Khawaja played a key role in Sydney Thunder’s first-ever BBL title.

  • Came in with an aggressive mindset, putting Thunder ahead early.
  • Added 86 runs for the first wicket, giving Thunder a strong foundation.
  • Kept attacking even after losing partners, maintaining the run rate.

Impact: Helped Sydney Thunder win their first and only BBL trophy.

BBL06 Final (2016-17) – Michael Klinger (Perth Scorchers)

BBL Title: 2016-17
Performance: 71 off 49 balls (5 fours, 4 sixes)
Opponent: Sydney Sixers

Michael Klinger provided a match-winning innings in a dominant chase.

  • Anchored the innings while accelerating at the right time.
  • Took Scorchers home with ease in just 15 overs.

Impact: Led Perth Scorchers to their third BBL title.

BBL07 Final (2017-18) – Travis Head (Adelaide Strikers)

BBL Title: 2017-18
Performance: 85* off 44 balls (8 fours, 5 sixes)
Opponent: Hobart Hurricanes

Travis Head delivered a captain’s knock, securing the Strikers' first BBL title.

  • Batted through the innings with an aggressive approach.
  • Played innovative strokes to counter Hurricanes’ bowling.

Impact: Helped Adelaide Strikers lift their maiden BBL trophy.

BBL08 Final (2018-19) – Dan Christian (Melbourne Renegades)

BBL Title: 2018-19
Performance: 38* off 30 balls & 2 wickets
Opponent: Melbourne Stars

Dan Christian's all-round performance turned the game in Renegades’ favor.

  • Anchored the chase under pressure.
  • Took two crucial wickets to derail the Stars' batting lineup.

Impact: Helped Melbourne Renegades win their first BBL title.

BBL09 Final (2019-20) – Josh Philippe (Sydney Sixers)

BBL Title: 2019-20
Performance: 52 off 29 balls
Opponent: Melbourne Stars

Josh Philippe played a defining knock in a rain-affected final.

  • Led a quick start despite difficult conditions.
  • Ensured the Sixers posted a competitive total.

Impact: Led Sydney Sixers to another championship.

BBL10 Final (2020-21) – James Vince (Sydney Sixers)

BBL Title: 2020-21
Performance: 95* off 60 balls
Opponent: Perth Scorchers

James Vince dominated with an unbeaten knock in the final.

Impact: Secured Sydney Sixers' back-to-back titles.

BBL11 Final (2021-22) – Laurie Evans (Perth Scorchers)

BBL Title: 2021-22
Performance: 76 off 41 balls
Opponent: Sydney Sixers

Laurie Evans played a fearless knock, taking Scorchers to their fourth title.

Impact: Sealed Perth Scorchers' dominance in BBL.

BBL12 Final (2022-23) – Ashton Turner (Perth Scorchers)

BBL Title: 2022-23
Performance: 54 off 34 balls
Opponent: Brisbane Heat

Turner led the chase after early setbacks, ensuring victory.

Impact: Perth Scorchers became the most successful BBL team.

BBL13 Final (2023-24) – Spencer Johnson (Brisbane Heat)

BBL Title: 2023-24
Performance: 4/26
Opponent: Sydney Sixers

Spencer Johnson’s pace dismantled the Sixers’ batting lineup.

Impact: Brisbane Heat secured their second BBL championship.

BBL14 Final (2024-25) – Mitchell Owen (Hobart Hurricanes)

BBL Title: 2024-25
Performance: 108 off 42 balls
Opponent: Sydney Thunder

Mitchell Owen smashed a record-equalling 39-ball century, leading the Hurricanes to their first title.

  • Attacked from the start, hitting 11 sixes.
  • Reached his hundred in just 39 balls.

Impact: Secured Hobart Hurricanes' first-ever BBL championship.

Players Who Could Make History in Future BBL Finals

  • Jake Fraser-McGurk (Melbourne Renegades): One of the most exciting young hitters.
  • Matt Short (Adelaide Strikers): A potential future captain and match-winner.
  • Nathan Ellis (Hobart Hurricanes): Death-over specialist who can turn games.

With BBL growing stronger each season, new heroes will emerge in upcoming finals!

BBL Stats & Records You Should Know

The Big Bash League (BBL) has produced incredible records over the years, from massive team totals to unbelievable individual performances. This section highlights some of the most important stats and records every BBL fan should know.

Read More About : Cricket League Management in Australia

1. Most BBL Titles by a Team 🏆

TeamTitles WonWinning Seasons
Perth Scorchers52013-14, 2014-15, 2016-17, 2021-22, 2022-23
Sydney Sixers32011-12, 2019-20, 2020-21
Brisbane Heat12012-13
Sydney Thunder12015-16
Adelaide Strikers12017-18
Melbourne Renegades12018-19

Perth Scorchers hold the record for most BBL titles (5), making them the most successful team in the competition.

2. Most Runs in BBL History 🏏

PlayerMatchesRunsAverageStrike Rate
Chris Lynn1143,95534.6148.8
Aaron Finch1033,11934.1138.3
Jonathan Wells1132,800+32.8125.2

Chris Lynn remains the leading run-scorer in BBL history, with 3,955 runs at a strike rate of nearly 150.

3. Most Wickets in BBL History 🎯

BowlerMatchesWicketsEconomy Rate
Sean Abbott100+1758.2
Ben Laughlin961117.9
Andrew Tye891048.1

Sean Abbott holds the record for the most wickets in BBL history, with 175 wickets to his name.

4. Highest Team Totals in BBL

TeamScoreOpponentSeason
Adelaide Strikers5/251Brisbane Heat2024–25
Melbourne Stars273/2Hobart Hurricanes2022–23
Sydney Thunder232/5Sydney Sixers2021–22

The Adelaide Strikers set a new record with a total of 5/251 against Brisbane Heat during the 2024–25 season.

5. Lowest Team Totals in BBL ❌

TeamScoreOpponentSeason
Sydney Thunder15Adelaide Strikers2022–23
Melbourne Renegades57Melbourne Stars2014–15
Adelaide Strikers68Melbourne Stars2015–16

Sydney Thunder's 15 all out against Adelaide Strikers in the 2022–23 season remains the lowest total in BBL history.

6. Fastest Centuries in BBL ⚡

PlayerBalls TakenScoreOpponentSeason
Craig Simmons39102Adelaide Strikers2013–14
Mitchell Owen39108Sydney Thunder2024–25
Chris Gayle41100*Adelaide Strikers2015–16

Mitchell Owen equalled the fastest BBL century record, reaching 100 runs in 39 deliveries during the 2024–25 final.

7. Fastest Fifties in BBL 🔥

PlayerBalls TakenScoreOpponentSeason
Chris Gayle1251Adelaide Strikers2015–16
Tom Banton1655Sydney Thunder2019–20
Glenn Maxwell1865Melbourne Stars2021–22

Chris Gayle smashed the fastest BBL fifty in just 12 balls during the 2015-16 season.

8. Best Bowling Figures in a BBL Match 🎯

BowlerFiguresOpponentSeason
Lasith Malinga6/7Perth Scorchers2012–13
Ish Sodhi6/11Sydney Thunder2016–17
Dan Christian5/14Brisbane Heat2017–18

Lasith Malinga’s 6/7 remains the best bowling figures in BBL history.

9. Most Sixes in BBL History 💥

PlayerSixesMatches
Chris Lynn180+110+
Aaron Finch140+100+
Glenn Maxwell135+95+

Chris Lynn is the six-hitting king of BBL, with over 180 sixes to his name.

10. Biggest Win Margins in BBL 🏆

TeamWinning MarginOpponentSeason
Melbourne Stars152 runsSydney Sixers2018–19
Adelaide Strikers145 runsBrisbane Heat2019–20
Sydney Thunder129 runsMelbourne Renegades2021–22

Melbourne Stars' 152-run win in 2018–19 remains the biggest win margin in BBL history. 

BBL Records That Could Be Broken Soon

  • Most Runs Record: Aaron Finch could overtake Chris Lynn as the top run-scorer.
  • Most Wickets: Sean Abbott is on track to extend his lead as BBL’s best bowler.
  • Fastest 100: Could someone break Craig Simmons’ 39-ball century record?

With BBL evolving each season, new records are bound to be set!

Conclusion & What’s Next for BBL

The Big Bash League (BBL) has grown into one of the most exciting T20 tournaments in the world. Since its first season in 2011, it has produced thrilling matches, record-breaking performances, and unforgettable finals.

What’s Next for BBL?

As BBL continues to grow, several changes and trends are expected to shape its future.

1. Shorter & More Competitive Seasons

BBL has faced some criticism for longer seasons, leading to talks about reducing matches to keep the tournament fresh and exciting. A more compact schedule could attract more international stars and improve the overall quality of games.

2. More International Players in Each Team

Currently, BBL allows three overseas players in the playing XI. Future seasons might increase this limit, bringing in more global cricket stars and making the league even more competitive.

3. Expansion of the Tournament?

There have been discussions about adding new teams to the league. If this happens, it could create more regional rivalries and expand the reach of BBL across Australia.

4. Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) Gaining More Attention

The Women’s BBL (WBBL) has seen incredible growth. With stars like Ellyse Perry and Beth Mooney, the WBBL is becoming just as popular as the men’s tournament. Future seasons could see double-headers featuring both men’s and women’s games on the same day.

5. Will Any Team Catch Perth Scorchers?

With 5 BBL titles, the Perth Scorchers are the team to beat. Can Sydney Sixers, Melbourne Stars, or Brisbane Heat rise to their level? The next few seasons will tell.

Final Thoughts: Why BBL Will Continue to Thrive

  • BBL remains one of the most entertaining T20 leagues in the world.
  • Fast-paced matches, big-hitting superstars, and passionate fans make it an event to watch every summer.
  • As the league evolves, expect more records, close finishes, and legendary performances.

Whether you’re a Perth Scorchers fan, cheering for the Sydney Sixers, or supporting an underdog team, the BBL will keep delivering top-class cricket.

💬 What’s your favorite BBL moment? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
📢 Think your team will win the next BBL? Share your predictions!
🎯 Follow for more updates on BBL stats, records, and future seasons!

FAQs

Q1: Which team has won the most BBL titles?

Perth Scorchers hold the record for the most BBL titles, winning five championships (2013–14, 2014–15, 2016–17, 2021–22, 2022–23).

Q2: Who won the first BBL season?

The Sydney Sixers won the inaugural BBL season (2011–12) by defeating Perth Scorchers in the final at WACA Ground.

Q3: Has any team won back-to-back BBL titles?

Yes, Perth Scorchers (2013–14 & 2014–15, 2021–22 & 2022–23) and Sydney Sixers (2019–20 & 2020–21) have won consecutive BBL titles.

Q4: Who has scored the most runs in BBL history?

Chris Lynn is the all-time leading run-scorer in BBL history, with over 3,000 runs.

Q5: Who has taken the most wickets in BBL history?

Sean Abbott holds the record for most wickets in BBL history, with over 125 wickets.

Q6: What is the highest team total in a BBL match?

The Melbourne Stars hold the record for the highest total in BBL history, scoring 273/2 against the Hobart Hurricanes in the 2022–23 season.

Q7: What is the lowest total in BBL history?

Sydney Thunder holds the record for the lowest BBL total, being all out for 15 against Adelaide Strikers in the 2022–23 season.

Q8: Who hit the fastest century in BBL history?

Craig Simmons and Mitchell Owen share the record for the fastest BBL century, each scoring 100 off just 39 balls. Simmons achieved this for Perth Scorchers in 2013–14, and Owen matched it for Hobart Hurricanes in the 2024–25 final.

Q9: Who bowled the best spell in a BBL match?

Lasith Malinga has the best bowling figures in a single BBL match, taking 6 wickets for 7 runs for Melbourne Stars in the 2012–13 season.

Q10: Which team has never won a BBL title?

As of the 2024–25 season, the Melbourne Stars are the only team that has not won a BBL championship

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