Sydney Sixers has confirmed that Pakistan star batter Babar Azam will not feature in the BBL 15 Challenger against Hobart Hurricanes, scheduled on Friday at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
The timing could not have been tougher. With the finals heating up and a place in the BBL final on the line, the Sixers have lost their biggest overseas name at the sharpest end of the tournament.
Why Babar Is Heading Home?
The announcement came just over 24 hours before Friday’s knockout clash. According to the Sixers, Babar has been asked to return to Pakistan immediately to join the national team camp ahead of upcoming international commitments.
“The Sydney Sixers have today been informed that Sixers opener Babar Azam is required to return to Pakistan to join his national teammates in camp,” the club said in an official statement.
“As a result, Babar will depart Australia immediately and will not be available for selection for the remainder of the BBL 15 Finals Series.”
The Challenger against Hobart Hurricanes will decide who faces Perth Scorchers in Sunday’s BBL final, to be played in Perth.
Sixers general manager Rachael Haynes admitted the franchise had hoped for a different outcome.
“We are sincerely grateful for the opportunity to have had Babar represent the club,” she said. “While we had initially planned for him to be available throughout the Finals, he has been an immensely valued member of our group.”
A Season That Never Quite Took Off
Statistically, Babar’s first Big Bash stint was a mixed bag. He finished with 202 runs from 11 matches, averaging 22.44 with a strike rate of 103.06. Two half-centuries stood out, but consistency never truly followed.
For a player of his calibre, expectations were always sky high. However, adapting to Australian conditions, different pitches, and relentless scrutiny is never straightforward, especially in a fast-paced league like the BBL.
Still, his presence added star power, experience and calm to the Sixers dressing room.
Babar’s Goodbye Message
Despite the challenges, Babar left Australia on a positive note, thanking the club, teammates and fans for their support.
“First of all, thank you so much Sydney Sixers for having me,” Babar said.
“I have very much enjoyed my time. Unfortunately, I now have to leave the team to go to national duty.”
He also spoke warmly about the atmosphere at the SCG.
“I have a lot of positive things to take back home. Especially thank you to the Sydney Sixers fans. There is always a lot of support and encouragement. I really enjoyed that vibe at Sydney Cricket Ground.”
Interestingly, Babar had initially been cleared to play the full BBL season and was not selected for Pakistan’s recent T20I series against Sri Lanka. However, plans have shifted.
He is now expected to feature in Pakistan’s home T20I series against Australia, which will act as the final rehearsal ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
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