Pakistan’s batting superstar Babar Azam has officially joined the Sydney Sixers for the upcoming 15th season of the Big Bash League (BBL), in what is being hailed as one of the most high-profile signings in the tournament’s history.
The Sixers announced the acquisition on June 13, securing Babar ahead of the BBL 15 Draft scheduled for June 19. Under BBL rules, each team can sign one overseas player prior to the draft — a move the Sixers used to lock in the prolific Pakistani batter.
Babar, who captained Pakistan from 2019 to 2024 and guided the national team to the semi-finals of the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup and the final in 2022, brings not only top-tier talent but also vast leadership experience. Recognized globally for his calm demeanor and impeccable technique, he has consistently ranked among the world’s best in both ODIs and T20Is.
His accolades include:
- ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year (2021, 2022)
- ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year (2022)
- Fastest to 5,000 ODI runs (in just 97 innings)
- Over 11,000 runs in T20 cricket across leagues and formats
The Pakistan Cricket Board has issued Babar a No Objection Certificate (NOC), clearing the way for him to participate in the full BBL season, including the finals.
Reacting to the announcement, Babar said he was “super pumped” to be joining the Sixers and looked forward to playing alongside top international stars such as Steve Smith.
This will mark Babar’s debut in the Big Bash League, adding another major tournament to his resume, which already includes the Pakistan Super League, Caribbean Premier League, and various domestic competitions in England.
The Sixers’ squad for BBL 15 now features a strong lineup, bolstered by Babar’s inclusion:
Sydney Sixers squad so far:
Sean Abbott, Babar Azam, Joel Davies, Ben Dwarshuis, Jack Edwards, Moises Henriques, Todd Murphy, Mitch Perry, Josh Philippe, Jordan Silk, Steve Smith
With Babar available for the entire season, his presence is expected to significantly boost the Sixers’ title chances.
