Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam has officially ended his Big Bash League journey with the Sydney Sixers after being recalled to join Pakistan’s national team training camp ahead of upcoming international assignments.
The Sydney Sixers confirmed on Thursday that Babar will not be available for the remainder of the BBL 2025–26 Finals Series, including the Challenger clash against Hobart Hurricanes scheduled at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The winner of that match will face the Perth Scorchers in the final.
Babar was signed as a direct overseas recruit and was initially expected to remain available throughout the tournament. However, the franchise was informed that the right-handed batter is required to return to Pakistan as preparations begin for the national side’s forthcoming fixtures.
In an official statement, the Sixers said the decision was linked to Pakistan’s national camp commencing ahead of upcoming matches, prompting Babar’s immediate departure from Australia.
Rachael Haynes, the Sixers' general manager, said that the team had planned for Babar to play in the Finals, but she understood that he had other national duties. She said nice things about his professionalism and work while he was with the club.
Before leaving, Babar shared a farewell message through the Sixers’ social media channels, thanking the management, teammates, and supporters. He said he enjoyed his experience in Australia and appreciated the support he received from fans during matches in Sydney.
Babar’s maiden BBL season proved challenging. He hit 202 runs in 11 games, with an average of 22.44 and a strike rate of just over 103. Although he scored two half-centuries, people questioned his overall performance, particularly towards the end of the tournament.
In the Qualifier against the Perth Scorchers, he was out for a duck while chasing a small target. He made his last appearance. The innings intensified discussions around his form, with some former players publicly questioning his place in the playing XI.
Pakistan has yet to formally announce its squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Australia, which is scheduled to begin on January 29. The series will also serve as preparation for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup scheduled later this year.
For now, Babar Azam turns his focus back to national duty, bringing an early end to his first Big Bash League stint as the Sydney Sixers continue their title push without him.