Pakistan star batter Babar Azam will not be part of the remainder of the Big Bash League season after being recalled to Pakistan’s national team camp, a move that rules him out of the Sydney Sixers’ playoff campaign.
The development comes at a crucial stage of the tournament, with the Sixers set to feature in the Challenger match as they aim for a place in the BBL final.
The Sixers confirmed on Thursday that Babar has been asked to return to Pakistan immediately to join preparations for upcoming international commitments.
As a result, the right-hander will be unavailable for selection for the rest of the BBL finals series, despite earlier plans for him to stay through the entire tournament.
Sydney Sixers are scheduled to face Hobart Hurricanes in the Challenger match, with the winner earning a spot in the final against Perth Scorchers.
Babar’s absence is a notable blow for the franchise, although the team management has expressed full support for the decision, acknowledging the importance of national duty.
Sixers general manager Rachael Haynes stated that Babar was a valued member of the squad during his time in Australia.
She added that while the franchise had hoped to have him throughout the finals, the commencement of Pakistan’s national camp meant preparations for international fixtures had to take priority.
Babar’s maiden BBL campaign was a challenging one statistically. The 31-year-old scored 202 runs in 11 matches at an average of 22.44, including two half-centuries.
His strike rate, just over 103, reflected the difficulties he faced in adapting to the fast-paced demands of the tournament. Despite the numbers, Babar contributed experience at the top of the order and remained committed to the team environment.
During the season, a brief on-field misunderstanding involving batting partner Steve Smith drew attention, but Sixers captain Moises Henriques later clarified that it was simply a cultural misunderstanding that was quickly resolved through open communication within the group.
Following the announcement of his departure, Babar expressed gratitude to the Sixers, teammates, coaching staff, and fans.
He described his stint in Sydney as a positive learning experience, highlighting the support he received at the Sydney Cricket Ground and the memories he will carry forward into international cricket.
Pakistan is set to play a T20I series later this month, followed by preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup. With Babar now focused on national duties, the Sixers will look to regroup quickly as they chase BBL silverware without their overseas star.
