Srinagar: Pakistan superstar batter Babar Azam has officially joined the Sydney Sixers for the upcoming edition of Australia’s Big Bash League.
As per BBL regulations, each team is permitted to sign one international player ahead of the official BBL 15 Draft, scheduled for Thursday, June 19. The Sixers used this opportunity to secure the services of the Pakistan maestro.
In a video message released by the franchise on Friday, the 30-year-old star batter shared his enthusiasm about teaming up with Australian greats Steve Smith and Josh Hazlewood.
“Hey guys, super pumped to be joining the Sydney Sixers. Cannot wait to share the dressing room with my favorite batter, Steve Smith, and world-class bowler, Josh Hazlewood,” Babar said.
“I have always loved playing in Australia, but making my BBL debut will be something special. So I’m really excited and looking forward to getting over there and meeting my crazy cricket fans,” he added.
The right-handed batter also spoke about what the move means to him personally and professionally.
“I’m very proud to be joining the Sydney Sixers for the upcoming season,” Babar said. “It’s an exciting opportunity to play in one of the world’s best T20 leagues and to be a part of such a successful and respected franchise.
“I’m looking forward to contributing to the team’s success, building a strong connection with the fans, and sharing this experience with my friends, family, and supporters back home in Pakistan.”
The 30-year-old captained Pakistan side from 2019 to 2024 in all three formats, leading Pakistan to the semi-final of the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup and the final of the 2022 edition.
Babar’s accolades include being named ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year in 2021 and 2022, and ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year in 2022. He also holds the record as the fastest player to reach 5,000 ODI runs, accomplishing the feat in just 97 innings.
He brings extensive T20 experience with over 11,000 runs in the format and a strong presence in major global leagues such as the Pakistan Super League, Caribbean Premier League, and various English domestic competitions.
This landmark signing will see Babar make his BBL debut, and he will be available for the entire season, including the finals—offering a significant boost to the Sixers’ championship ambitions.
Sydney Sixers squad for BBL 15 to date: Sean Abbott, Babar Azam, Joel Davies, Ben Dwarshuis, Jack Edwards, Moises Henriques, Todd Murphy, Mitch Perry, Josh Philippe, Jordan Silk, Steve Smith.