What Is 2007-08 KFC Twenty20 Big Bash

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 2007–08 KFC Twenty20 Big Bash was the sixth season of Australia's domestic T20 competition, held from December 14, 2007, to January 27, 2008, featuring six state teams competing in a group and knockout format. New South Wales Blues won the tournament by defeating Victoria in the final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Key Facts

Season ran from December 14, 2007, to January 27, 2008
Six state teams participated in the tournament
New South Wales Blues won the final by 7 wickets
Final match held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground
KFC was the title sponsor for the competition

Overview

The 2007–08 KFC Twenty20 Big Bash was the sixth edition of Australia's premier domestic Twenty20 cricket competition, serving as a key platform for local talent ahead of international T20 developments. Organized by Cricket Australia, the tournament featured state-based teams competing in a fast-paced, fan-friendly format designed to boost interest in the shortest form of the game.

This season was notable for maintaining the traditional state-team structure before the eventual shift to franchise-based teams in the later Big Bash League. The competition culminated in a high-profile final at a major venue, drawing significant public and media attention.

New South Wales Blues emerged champions after defeating Victoria by 7 wickets in the final held on January 27, 2008, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The tournament spanned 6 weeks, beginning on December 14, 2007, with matches scheduled primarily on weekends to maximize attendance and broadcast viewership.
Six teams participated: New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania, each representing their respective cricketing states.
KFC served as the title sponsor, continuing a multi-year partnership that helped fund marketing and infrastructure for the domestic T20 circuit.
Matches were played under official ICC Twenty20 rules, with each side batting for a maximum of 20 overs to ensure fast-paced, spectator-friendly cricket.

How It Works

The 2007–08 KFC Twenty20 Big Bash followed a structured competition format combining group-stage round-robin matches with knockout finals, designed to balance competitiveness and entertainment.

Format: The six teams played in a double round-robin group stage, ensuring each team faced the others twice, totaling 15 group matches before the semifinals.
Venues: Matches were hosted at major state grounds including the SCG, WACA, and MCG, rotating locations to promote national engagement and fan access.
Knockout Stage: The top four teams advanced to semifinals, with winners progressing to a standalone final hosted at a neutral, high-capacity venue.
Player Eligibility: Only domestic players were eligible, emphasizing state pride and providing exposure for players aiming for national selection.
Umpiring & Rules: Matches were officiated by elite panel umpires and followed standard T20 regulations, including fielding restrictions and powerplays.
Broadcast: All matches were televised live by Australia's Nine Network, with pre- and post-game analysis to enhance viewer engagement.

Comparison at a Glance

A comparison of the 2007–08 KFC Twenty20 Big Bash with later franchise-based Big Bash League seasons reveals key structural and branding differences.

Feature	2007–08 Big Bash	Big Bash League (2011–12 onward)
Team Structure	State-based teams (e.g., NSW, Victoria)	Franchise-based city teams (e.g., Sydney Sixers, Perth Scorchers)
Number of Teams	6	8 (later expanded to 8)
Sponsor	KFC	KFC (continued)
Player Selection	State eligibility only	Drafted players, including international stars
Champion (2008)	New South Wales Blues	N/A (first BBL season: 2011–12)

The transition from state teams to city-based franchises in 2011 marked a strategic shift toward global T20 models like the IPL. The 2007–08 season, therefore, represents the final era of traditional state competition before modernization.

Why It Matters

The 2007–08 KFC Twenty20 Big Bash holds historical significance as one of the last iterations of Australia's state-based T20 cricket before the franchise model overhaul. It helped maintain public interest in domestic cricket during a transitional period.

Development Pipeline: The tournament served as a proving ground for future Australian international players, including several who later debuted in T20Is.
Fan Engagement: High-profile venues and weekend scheduling boosted attendance, with the final drawing over 30,000 fans to the MCG.
Commercial Success: KFC's continued sponsorship demonstrated strong brand confidence in domestic cricket’s marketability.
Transition Indicator: The season highlighted the need for innovation, directly influencing the creation of the BBL in 2011.
Media Coverage: Extensive TV coverage helped normalize T20 cricket as mainstream entertainment in Australia.
Legacy: The success of this season contributed to Australia hosting the 2009 ICC World Twenty20, showcasing its T20 readiness.

Ultimately, the 2007–08 KFC Twenty20 Big Bash bridged traditional domestic cricket with the modern era, laying groundwork for Australia's current T20 landscape.