KEY POINTS
- Fans are encouraged to visit Babar Azam’s fan bay during Sixers’ home games at the SCG, starting December 17
- The 15th edition of the BBL will feature multiple Pakistani stars, including Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan
SYDNEY: The Sydney Sixers have launched a unique fan zone named “Babaristan” to honour Pakistan’s cricket sensation, Babar Azam, as he embarks on his maiden Big Bash League (BBL) journey.
The franchise unveiled the fan zone via their official social media platforms, declaring, “Introducing Babaristan, A Fan Zone Like No Other.”
“We’re celebrating cricket culture like never before with Babaristan, a brand-new Sixers fan zone dedicated to welcoming one of the world’s greatest cricketers, Babar Azam,” said the franchise in their announcement.
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As part of the excitement, fans are encouraged to join the festivities during the Sixers’ opening match against the Adelaide Strikers on December 17.
To promote the fan zone, the Sixers shared an engaging video on social media featuring Babar himself, inviting supporters to visit his dedicated bay during the team’s home games at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).
The Babaristan fan bay will be open during the following Sydney Sixers home fixtures:
- December 17 vs Adelaide Strikers
- December 26 vs Melbourne Stars
- January 5, 2026 vs Brisbane Heat
- January 11, 2026 vs Hobart Hurricanes
- January 16, 2026 vs Sydney Thunder
The 15th edition of the BBL, which runs from December 14, 2025, to January 25, 2026, will feature 44 matches, scheduled for early evening.
The season will kick off with an exciting clash between the Perth Scorchers and the Sydney Sixers at Perth Stadium.
This opening match is set to be a high-profile event, especially with Babar Azam making his highly anticipated BBL debut for the Sixers.
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Several other Pakistani cricketers will also showcase their talent in the BBL this season. Shaheen Afridi, a pacer, was selected by Brisbane Heat as their first overseas and platinum pick, while wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan joins the Melbourne Renegades.
Additionally, Haris Rauf remains with the Melbourne Stars, former Pakistan U19 all-rounder Hassan Khan returns to the Renegades, and Shadab Khan, the current T20I vice-captain, has signed with the Sydney Thunder.
Pacer Hasan Ali completes the list of Pakistani players, having been picked by the Adelaide Strikers.
This season promises to be a thrilling one, with Babar Azam’s debut generating substantial excitement among cricket fans worldwide.
