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Sydney Thunder veteran Chris Tremain fears that the Big Bash's x-factor rule is detrimental to player development and could hurt the competition's youngsters.
Big Bash veteran Chris Tremain claims the competition's x-factor rule is detrimental to player development and could hurt young bowlers in the long run.
The BBL's controversial new rules have largely been a success this season, with the power surge in particular adding tactical intrigue.
However the x-factor has been used sparingly, with teams substituting players into games at the 10-over mark just six times in the first 22 games of the tournament.
Regardless, Sydney Thunder quick Tremain is worried about what impact it could have on young players who are subbed out after one bad over.
"Imagine if you're 21 or 22 and you get subbed out and you never get the opportunity to then learn how to come back from from that little setback," Tremain said.
"If we're serious about developing young players and turning them into really good cricketers, you can't shy away from things that go wrong.
"And especially when it's early in the game."
When used tactically, the x-factor can have an impact on the game.
The rule is designed to let teams adjust for different surfaces. For example, if teams feel the need to play one more or one less spinner on a particular wicket.
It can also be handy if sides feel the need to play an extra batsmen or bowler, dependent on how the opening overs have played out.
However Melbourne Stars bowlers Tom O'Connell and Lance Morris have suffered the fate Tremain fears, going for 0-15 and 0-14 in their only games this season before being subbed off.
The Thunder quick himself went for 18 in his first over against the Melbourne Stars earlier this week, before staying on the field and recovering to take 2-27.
"That's a bit of an issue (for the young players) that I think you'll see a little bit of," Tremain said.
"You need that opportunity to make an impact at the back end with the ball, and if need be hit the winning runs for your team.
"But for me, the x-factor and subbing out for poor performance is detrimental but tactically it has its advantages."
