The Sydney Sixers have secured Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) 15 season.
The signing, confirmed on June 13, marks one of the most significant acquisitions in the history of the competition.
Babar Azam, widely regarded as one of the finest batters in modern cricket, will bring his skill, consistency, and leadership experience to the Sixers this summer.
As per BBL regulations, each team is allowed to sign one international player before the official BBL 15 Draft, which is set to take place on June 19. The Sixers capitalised on this opportunity to secure the services of the Pakistan cricket icon.
The development also comes after PCB confirmed it issued No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to key Pakistani players, allowing Babar to join Sydney Sixers.Â
A veteran of over a decade in Pakistan’s national team, Babar captained the side from 2019 to 2024 and led them to the semi-finals of the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup and the final of the 2022 edition.
Known for his poise under pressure and his technical mastery, he has consistently ranked among the world’s top batters in both ODIs and T20Is.
Babar’s accolades include being named ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year in 2021 and 2022, as well as ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year in 2022. He also holds the record for the fastest player to reach 5,000 ODI runs, achieving the milestone in just 97 innings.
With over 11,000 T20 runs to his name, Babar has proven himself a force in the shortest format of the game.
Speaking on his signing, Babar expresses enthusiasm and stated he was ‘super pumped’ to be joining the side.
His experience in major global leagues, including the Pakistan Super League, Caribbean Premier League, and various English domestic competitions, further bolsters his credentials.
This high-profile signing will see Babar make his debut in the BBL and will add a powerful asset to the Sixers’ squad.
Notably, Babar will be available for the entire season, including the finals, significantly enhancing the team’s prospects for the title.
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
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