A Landmark Signing: Babar Azam in BBL 15 with Sydney Sixers
Pakistan’s cricket icon and former captain Babar Azam in BBL has become reality as he officially joins the Sydney Sixers for the upcoming Big Bash League season 15. This move is being recognized as one of the most high-profile takeovers in BBL history. As per league rules, every team can pre-sign one international player before the draft. The Sixers smartly used this slot to bring him ahead of the draft competition.
Why Babar Azam in BBL is a Game-Changer?
Babar Azam is among the top batters in the world, admired for his technique, temperament, and consistency. Having acquired over 10,000 runs across all formats, He adds both experience and class to the Sixers lineup. His calm behavior and leadership experience make him a complete T20 asset, exactly what the Sixers aimed for.
With a history of BBL success—finishing in the top two for the past six seasons and winning two titles—the Sydney Sixers found the perfect moment to introduce Babar, using their pre-draft pick while other teams had already committed to their overseas signings.
A World-Class Performer: Babar Azam in BBL Brings Global T20 Expertise
The presence of Babar Azam brings unmatched T20 experience, having already participated in top leagues like the PSL, CPL, BPL, England’s T20 Blast, and the LPL. With over 11,000 T20 runs at an average above 43, he stands as the most consistent batter among players with such volume.
In his latest T20 period during PSL 2025, despite Peshawar Zalmi’s overall poor performance, Babar Azam in BBL now arrives fresh after scoring 288 runs in 10 innings at a strike rate of 128.57.
Leadership and Records: The Legacy of Babar Azam in BBL’s New Star
Having led Pakistan from 2019 to 2024, Babar brings not just batting ability but also captaincy experience. Under his leadership, Pakistan reached the 2021 T20 World Cup semi-final and the 2022 final.
The impact of Babar Azam is backed by achievements like:
- ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year (2021, 2022)
- ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year (2022)
- Fastest player to 5,000 ODI runs (in just 97 innings)
Availability Confirmed: Babar Azam in BBL 15 for Full Season
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued an NOC allowing him participation throughout the entire season, including the playoffs. Other Pakistani players like Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, and Haris Rauf have also been cleared, but Babar is expected to be the top attraction.
Official Statements: Excitement Over Babar Azam in BBL
Babar shared his excitement, saying:
“It’s an exciting opportunity to play in one of the world’s best T20 leagues and be part of a successful and respected franchise.”
He expressed his eagerness to play with Australian stars Steve Smith and Josh Hazlewood, making his BBL debut a moment fans won’t forget.
The Sixers welcomed Babar Azam on social media with the message:
“The SCG has been home to many legends. Now it’s home to the [king]. Welcome, Babar Azam.”
Sydney Sixers Management on Signing Babar Azam in BBL
Rachael Haynes, General Manager of the Sixers, stated:
“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Babar. He is a world-class player and a proven leader. His skill, professionalism, and experience bring enormous value to our playing group.”
This move shows that Babar Azam fits perfectly into the Sixers’ ambition of becoming a globally recognized destination franchise.
A Smart Move: How Sixers Secured Babar in BBL Without Competition
While other teams pre-signed stars like:
- Chris Jordan (Hobart Hurricanes)
- Finn Allen (Perth Scorchers)
- Tim Seifert (Melbourne Renegades)
- Tom Curran (Melbourne Stars)
Only the Adelaide Strikers were left as a possible rival, but they had already signed Jamie Overton. This gave the Sixers a golden opportunity to sign Babar Azam in BBL without interference.
Buzz Across the Cricket World: Everyone’s Talking About Babar Azam in BBL
Former England captain Michael Vaughan hailed Babar as a “great signing.” Fans across Australia and Pakistan are excited to see him bat at the iconic SCG, with ticket sales expected to spike thanks to Babar Azam.
Upcoming Drafts and Global Interest
The BBL and WBBL drafts on June 19 feature over 600 international players. While the women’s league saw pre-signings like Sophie Devine, Laura Wolvaardt, and Amelia Kerr, the men’s draft now shines brighter with his headlining the buzz.
T20I Rankings Update: Babar Azam Still a World-Class Name
Though dropped from Pakistan’s recent T20 squad, He remains ranked 12th in the ICC T20I batting rankings and is just 9 runs away from surpassing Rohit Sharma as the format’s all-time leading scorer.
Conclusion: Babar Azam in BBL Marks a New Era for Sydney Sixers and the League
More than just a signing, Babar is a statement. His presence boosts the Sixers’ squad strength, enhances the league’s global image, and provides cricket fans with a chance to witness a legend. As gears up for his debut season, the excitement is unmistakable.
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