Babar Azam Joins Sydney Sixers for His First Big Bash Season

The Sydney Sixers have made a big signing for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season by bringing in Pakistan’s star batter, Babar Azam. This will be Azam’s first time playing in the BBL.

The Sixers signed him as their pre-draft international player before the overseas draft takes place on June 19. According to the league’s rules, each team can sign one overseas player before the draft. The Sixers were the last team to make their pick.

Azam will join a strong Sixers squad that already includes big names like Steve Smith, Josh Hazlewood, Sean Abbott, Moises Henriques, Josh Philippe, and others. Babar, having plenty of T20 experience, will be a huge asset for the Sixers in their pursuit of championship.

Babar has played more than 320 matches around the world. He is featured in leagues such as the Pakistan Super League (PSL), the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), the Lanka Premier League (LPL), and England’s Vitality Blast.

Most recently, he captained Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL. There, he was their top scorer with 288 runs in 10 innings at a strike rate of 128.57.

Azam expressed his excitement about his first BBL appearance. “I am really excited to join the Sixers and share the dressing room with players like Steve Smith and Josh Hazlewood. I have always enjoyed playing in Australia, but making my Big Bash debut will be something special,” he said.

In addition to Azam, several other prominent Pakistani players including Shaheen Afridi, Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Rizwan are also set to enter the overseas draft next week.

Azam highlighted the significance of this opportunity. “It is an exciting chance to play in one of the world’s top T20 leagues and be part of such a successful and respected club,” he said.

Sixers General Manager Rachael Haynes said the club was delighted to welcome Azam. Haynes said, “Babar is a world-class player who will bring enormous value to our team.” She called him a fantastic addition not just for the team, but for the entire BBL.

Haynes highlighted his experience, skill, and leadership as qualities that will strengthen the Sixers’ squad and support their goal of being a leading club on the global stage.

With Babar Azam now on board, the Sydney Sixers have added even more strength and experience to their squad. His presence will boost their chances as they set their sights on a successful and competitive BBL season ahead.