Sydney Sixers have made a huge pre-draft move ahead of next season’s Big Bash League, signing Pakistan’s star former T20I captain Babar Azam as their pre-draft overseas recruit. It’s the first-ever opportunity for Pakistan’s ace batsman in the BBL, and it adds international thrill to the Australian T20 league.
Babar Azam Joins with Steven Smith at Sydney Sixers
Babar Azam will join Steven Smith, in what could be known as one of the more dangerous Sixers line-ups in recent years. The Sixers had been the only franchise without a pre-signed overseas player, and Babar’s signing is a big headline.
Sixers Squad So Far for BBL 2025
Steven Smith
Babar Azam
Sean Abbott
Joel Davies
Ben Dwarshuis
Read More
Jack Edwards
Moises Henriques
Todd Murphy
Mitch Perry
Josh Philippe
Jordan Silk
Babar Azam Shows Enthusiasm for BBL Role
Referring to his initial BBL experience, Babar Azam mentioned his excitement:
“It’s a thrilling chance to play for one of the world’s premier T20 leagues and to be part of such a thriving and admired franchise,” Babar stated in the Sixers’ statement. “I’m excited to help the team continue to be successful, form a deep bond with the fans, and share this experience with my fans in Pakistan.”
T20 Experience: Babar Brings Global Star Power to BBL
With over 320 career T20 games played, Babar Azam is one of the most experienced and technically sound batters in international cricket. In the last PSL 2025 season, Babar donned the captain’s cap for the Peshawar Zalmi in 10 matches with a collective score of 288 runs with a strike rate of 128.57. While the Peshawar Zalmi had a disappointing season, Babar led the team by scoring the most runs.
In absence of his national T20 team appearance this season, Babar is still a highly sought-after international cricketer that will continue to playback in T20 leagues such as the CPL, BPL, LPL, and England’s Vitality Blast.
Sydney Sixers View Babar as a Game-Changer
Rachael Haynes, Sydney Sixers’ General Manager, noted the importance of the signing:
“Babar’s CV speaks for itself. His experience, professionalism, and ability significantly contribute to our team. He is a world-class player and a seasoned leader. Signing such a player bolsters not only our club but also the league as a whole.”
Haynes went on to say that this signing fits into the Sixers’ long-term plan:
“The Sixers aim to be a destination club on the world stage from playing at the storied SCG to providing elite matchday experiences. Babar Azam’s signing is a big step in that direction.”
Pakistani Stars in BBL 2025 Draft
Apart from Babar Azam, some of the finest Pakistani cricketers like Shaheen Afridi, Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Rizwan are likely to appear in the coming BBL overseas draft on June 19, so this season is going to be one of the most internationally competitive ones.
Final Thoughts
Sydney Sixers signing Babar Azam before the BBL draft brings not only depth to their lineup but international appeal to the competition. Cricket fans in Pakistan and around Australia can now look forward to seeing one of cricket’s most dashing batters take the stage at the BBL.
ALSO READ: WTC Final 2025, SA vs AUS: Day 2 Ends With Pat Cummins 6 Wicket Haul
