Pakistan batter Babar Azam will miss the remainder of the 2025–26 Big Bash League finals. His BBL team, the Sydney Sixers, confirmed that he will return to Pakistan to join a national team camp. The decision was announced a little over 24 hours before the Challenger final against Hobart Hurricanes at the SCG. The winner of that match will play Perth Scorchers in the final on Sunday in Perth.
The Sydney Sixers confirmed his departure in an official statement, saying Babar is required to return to Pakistan to begin preparations for upcoming international matches. As a result, he will not be available for the rest of the BBL finals series.
Sixers general manager Rachael Haynes said the team was thankful to have Babar represent the club. She said the original plan was for him to be available throughout the finals and described him as a valued member of the squad.
Fans react to Babar Azam leaving the Sydney Sixers
Fans reacted strongly after Babar Azam left the Sydney Sixers and was ruled out of the BBL finals, with mixed emotions seen online.
“Thank you, Babar, 👑. Wishing you the best for Pakistan,” posted the Sydney Sixers on X while confirming his departure.
“Duty calls. Country comes first,” wrote one fan reacting to Babar returning to join Pakistan’s national camp.
Some fans focused on his tough BBL season, saying, “This BBL was forgettable for Babar, maybe going back will help him reset.”
Others defended him despite criticism, with comments like, “Bad form happens. Class is permanent. Babar will bounce back.”
A few reactions were harsh after the Steve Smith single incident, with one post saying, “BBL will remember Babar more for that no-single moment than his runs.”
There were also supportive messages from Pakistan fans, such as, “Come back strong, King. Pakistan needs you more than BBL.”
Babar Azam Ends BBL Season Early to Join Pakistan Squad
Babar finished his first BBL season with 202 runs from 11 matches. He averaged 22.44 and scored at a strike rate of just over 103, with two half-centuries. He also drew attention during the tournament after an incident where Steve Smith denied him a single. Before leaving, Babar thanked the Sydney Sixers and said he now has to depart to fulfil his national duties.
Babar had originally committed to playing the full BBL season. He was not picked for Pakistan’s three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka earlier in January. However, with Pakistan scheduled to play Australia in a three-match T20I series starting January 29, he has now been called back. Other Pakistan players involved in the BBL will remain with their franchises until the tournament ends, before flying to the UAE on January 24 for a pre-tour camp.
Mark Waugh Questioned Babar Azam’s Role as Sydney Sixers Prepare for Challenger Match
Former Australian batter Mark Waugh publicly called for Babar to be dropped from the top of the order before the recall news emerged. Waugh said the Sixers were relying too heavily on Steve Smith and felt Babar had not done enough as an opener despite being a world-class player. He suggested options like Moises Henriques, Daniel Hughes, or Jordan Silk as possible replacements.
Steve Smith has been the Sixers’ standout player, with 220 runs in just four games. Babar was clearly irritated when Smith declined a single to maintain the strike during the season.
Sydney Sixers will now face Hobart Hurricanes in the Challenger match, with the winner set to play Perth Scorchers in the BBL 15 final.
FAQs
Q. Why did Babar Azam leave the Sydney Sixers?
A. Babar Azam left in order to go back to Pakistan and join the national team’s training camp.
Q. Will Babar Azam play in the BBL finals?
A. No. Babar Azam will miss the remainder of the 2025–26 Big Bash League finals.
Q. What were Babar Azam’s stats in his first BBL season?
A. Babar Azam scored 202 runs in 11 matches, averaged 22.44, and had a strike rate of just over 103, with two half-centuries.
Q. Who will the Sydney Sixers play next in the BBL?
A. Sydney Sixers will face Hobart Hurricanes in the Challenger match, with the winner set to play Perth Scorchers in the final.
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