Big Bash League: Babar Azam signs for Sydney Sixers

Sydney Sixers have completed one of the biggest signings in BBL history, locking in one of T20 cricket’s greatest batters. Where does he rank in the BBL’S best internationals? HAVE YOUR SAY

Sydney Sixers have secured one of the greatest signing coups in the BBL’s 15-year history, landing former Pakistan captain Babar Azam for the entirety of BBL15.

Ranked second for international T20 runs behind Indian legend Rohit Sharma, the 30-year-old ranks alongside Kevin Pietersen, Muttiah Muralitharan, Chris Gayle and AB De Villiers as one of the most high-profile BBL signings ever.

“It’s an exciting opportunity to play in one of the world’s best T20 leagues and to be a part of such a successful and respected franchise,” Babar said.

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“I’m looking forward to contributing to the team’s success, building a strong connection with the fans, and sharing this experience with my friends, family and supporters at home in Pakistan.”

Babar has made more than 11,000 T20 runs during a 320-game career which has included stints in the Caribbean Premier League, Pakistan Super League and England’s domestic leagues.

Babar Azam has signed with Sydney Sixers.

Regarded as one of the finest batters of the modern era, Babar led the Pakistan team which finished runner-up on Australian soil at the T20 World Cup in 2022, losing a nailbiting final to England.

“Babar’s resume speaks for itself. The skill, professionalism, and experience that he brings is of enormous value to our playing group and the news is obviously incredibly exciting for our fans,” Sixers general manager Rachael Haynes said.

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“He is a world-class player and a proven leader. He’s not only a huge addition to our club, but to the league as a whole.

“The Sixers strive to be a destination club on the global stage...and securing a player of Babar’s calibre only further strengthens that vision.”

Babar’s signing is a huge statement of intent from the three-time BBL champions — who reached last season’s Challenger — ahead of Thursday’s international draft.

There is a looming influx of Pakistani superstars to the BBL, with speedster Shaheen Shah Afridi, explosive wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and all-rounder Shadab Khan among those nominated.

“It’s enormously exciting to have a player of Babar Azam’s class signed for BBL15,” BBL boss Alistair Dobson said.

“He will be a fantastic addition to the Sixers line-up and the competition as a whole.

“Babar’s signing and the depth of talent in next week’s draft are further indications of the enduring global appeal of our world class league.”

Babar joins a strong group of internationals including Tom Curran (Stars), Colin Munro (Heat) and Chris Jordan (Hurricanes) who have pre-signed deals before the draft.

The Sixers hold pick six in the first round of the draft, which will be shown on Foxtel and Kayo Sports on Thursday from 4pm (AEST).

Originally published as Big Bash League: Babar Azam signs for Sydney Sixers