Babar Azam Exits BBL Finals: Sydney Sixers Star Called Back for Pakistan National Duty

In a significant development for the Big Bash League 2025-26 finals series, Sydney Sixers have confirmed that star opener Babar Azam will not be available for the remainder of the tournament. The Pakistan captain has been recalled by the Pakistan Cricket Board to join a national team camp, leaving the Sixers just 24 hours before their crucial Challenger final against Hobart Hurricanes at the SCG.

Timing and Impact on Sydney Sixers

The announcement comes at a critical juncture for the Sixers, who are fighting for a spot in the BBL final against Perth Scorchers in Perth on Sunday. Babar had initially been slated to remain available throughout the entire tournament, having been rested from Pakistan's three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka in early January.

Sixers general manager Rachael Haynes expressed the club's gratitude while acknowledging the circumstances.

"The Sydney Sixers are sincerely grateful for the opportunity to have had Babar represent the club during his time in Australia. 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."

Babar Azam's BBL Debut Season: A Mixed Campaign

Babar's maiden BBL stint produced modest returns by his exceptional standards. The Pakistan captain accumulated 202 runs across 11 matches, averaging 22.44 with a strike rate of 103.06. While he registered two half-centuries during the campaign, the overall numbers reflect a challenging adaptation period to the Australian T20 format.

Despite the statistical struggles, Babar remained positive about his experience with the magenta franchise.

"First of all, thank you so much Sydney Sixers for having me, all the boys, all the coaches and I have very enjoyed my time. I have a lot of things I have to take back home—a lot of fun, a lot of positive things, so I have enjoyed it a lot."

The Steven Smith Incident: Cultural Misunderstanding Resolved

Babar's BBL journey wasn't without controversy. Just two days before his departure announcement, Sixers captain Moises Henriques revealed that Babar had been "quite upset" after Steven Smith denied him a single during a match against Sydney Thunder.

"It took a couple of days for that to settle down. To be honest, I think it's just a bit of a misunderstanding of culture of each other. It's a pretty common thing in our culture, and maybe for him he wasn't used to it and didn't quite understand."

Henriques and head coach Greg Shipperd took the lead in mediating the situation, ultimately resolving the tension between the two international stars.

"Once it was explained to him he was absolutely fine. They've kissed and made up and it's two of the greats back friendly again."

Squad Changes for the Challenger Final

With Babar's departure, the Sixers have moved quickly to bolster their squad. Veteran batter Daniel Hughes has been recalled and is set to mark his 100th BBL appearance in the Challenger final—a fitting milestone for the experienced campaigner.

Meanwhile, Hobart Hurricanes received positive news with captain Nathan Ellis named to return after missing the Knockout final victory over Melbourne Stars due to a minor hamstring issue.

Looking Ahead: International Commitments Loom

Babar's recall comes ahead of a busy international schedule. Australia and Pakistan are set to clash in a three-match T20I series starting January 29. While Australian BBL participants will remain with their franchises until after the final, the rest of the Australian squad departs for a pre-tour camp in the UAE on January 24.

For Babar, this BBL experience—despite its challenges—will have provided valuable exposure to Australian conditions and T20 cricket culture. The lessons learned during his time with the Sixers could prove beneficial when Pakistan faces Australia in the upcoming bilateral series.

Babar's Message to Sixers Fans

The Pakistan star saved special words for the Sydney faithful who embraced him throughout the tournament.

"Especially, thank you to the Sydney Sixers fans there is always support there, lot of support, lot of encourage, a lot of fun, so I have very enjoyed that vibe at Sydney Cricket Ground, so thank you so much."

As the BBL finals continue without one of cricket's premier batters, both the Sixers and their fans will be hoping the experience has laid the foundation for future collaborations between Babar Azam and the magenta franchise.