KEY POINTS
- Babar Azam’s departure from Sydney Sixers, just before finals match, was mandated by Pakistan’s national team camp.
- Babar was signed for full Big Bash League and wasn’t in squad for Pakistan’s series against Australia.
SYDNEY: Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam has left the Sydney Sixers ahead of the Big Bash League finals after being recalled to join the national team’s training camp, cutting short his first appearance in Australia’s premier T20 competition.
The Sydney Sixers announced the former Pakistan captain’s departure on Thursday, just over 24 hours before their ‘Challenger’ match against the Hobart Hurricanes at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).
The winner of that match will face the Perth Scorchers in the BBL final.
In an official statement, the club said, “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, as preparations commence for upcoming international matches.
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As a result, Babar will depart Australia immediately and will not be available for selection for the remainder of the BBL|15 Finals Series.”
Respect for national duty
Babar was initially signed as a direct overseas player for the entire tournament and was not part of Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Australia, starting January 29.
His early recall represents a change in plans for both the player and the franchise.
Sixers General Manager Rachael Haynes confirmed the shift, stating, “While we had initially planned for Babar to be available throughout the Finals, he has been an immensely valued member of our group, and we fully understand that the commencement of Pakistan’s national camp means preparations are now underway for upcoming matches.”
She added that the club was “sincerely grateful” for his time with them.
Underwhelming tournament for Babar Azam
Babar’s first BBL season fell short of his usual high standards.
The prolific right-hander had an underwhelming run, managing 202 runs across 11 innings at an average of 22.44 and a strike rate of 103.06.
His departure leaves a significant gap at the top of the Sixers’ batting order as they enter the high-pressure finals stage.
His return to Pakistan signals the beginning of focused preparations for the national team’s future assignments, despite not being selected for the immediate series against Australia.
