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Pakistan stars cleared to feature in BBL 15: Cricket Australia chief

Cricket Australia (CA) chief executive Todd Greenberg has confirmed that Pakistan players have been cleared to participate in the upcoming 15th season of the Big Bash League (BBL), following the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to grant No Objection Certificates (NOCs).

The development comes after weeks of uncertainty surrounding the participation of Pakistani cricketers in overseas leagues.

The PCB had earlier announced a temporary halt on issuing NOCs for foreign T20 tournaments, sparking concerns over the availability of several star players contracted by BBL franchises.

However, Greenberg confirmed on Saturday that the matter has now been resolved, with all Pakistani players set to arrive as scheduled for the tournament.

“They’ll all be playing, they’ve all been cleared to play, which we’re really excited about because we’ve got some great Pakistan players in the BBL. We’re looking forward to seeing them here this summer,” Greenberg stated.

The confirmation ends speculation that had been circulating since PCB Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmed Syed issued a directive last month to withhold NOCs for overseas leagues.

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Earlier this week, sources within the PCB hinted that the restriction had been lifted, and Greenberg’s remarks now make it official.

BBL 15 will witness a strong Pakistani presence, with some of the country’s biggest names set to feature across franchises.

Babar Azam will turn out for the Sydney Sixers, Shaheen Shah Afridi for Brisbane Heat, Hasan Ali for Adelaide Strikers, Mohammad Rizwan for Melbourne Renegades, Haris Rauf for Melbourne Stars, and Shadab Khan for Sydney Thunder.

The star-studded season will kick off on December 14, 2025, with a blockbuster clash between defending champions Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers at Perth Stadium.

The tournament will run until January 25, 2026, featuring 44 matches in total.

READ: Graeme Cremer returns to Zimbabwe squad after seven-year hiatus

Sydney Sixers unveil ‘Babaristan’ fan zone to welcome Babar Azam

Sydney Sixers have rolled out a grand welcome for Pakistan’s batting superstar Babar Azam, announcing the launch of a special fan zone titled “Babaristan” ahead of the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season.

The franchise made the announcement across its social media platforms with the caption, “Introducing Babaristan — A Fan Zone Like No Other,” sparking excitement among cricket fans both in Australia and Pakistan.

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“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,” the franchise said in its official statement.

The Sixers have encouraged fans to join the festivities when they face the Adelaide Strikers in their opening clash on December 17, a match that will also mark Babar’s much-awaited BBL debut.

The 15th edition of the Big Bash League promises to be a star-studded affair, featuring 44 matches between December 14, 2025, and January 25, 2026.

The tournament opener will see the Perth Scorchers take on the Sydney Sixers in a blockbuster encounter at Perth Stadium.

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Babar’s inclusion has already created a wave of anticipation, with the Sixers’ fanbase preparing to turn sections of the stands into “Babaristan,” a symbolic nod to Pakistan’s deep-rooted cricket passion.

Several other Pakistani cricketers are also set to feature in the upcoming BBL season.

Pacer Shaheen Afridi was picked by Brisbane Heat as the first overseas and platinum pick, while Mohammad Rizwan joined the Melbourne Renegades.

Haris Rauf will continue with the Melbourne Stars, Shadab Khan will represent the Sydney Thunder, Hasan Ali has joined the Adelaide Strikers, and all-rounder Hassan Khan will return to the Renegades.

READ: Babar Azam returns as Pakistan reveal white-ball squads

Brisbane Heat launch ‘Shaheen’s Fan Bay’ for BBL 15

Two-time Big Bash League (BBL) champions Brisbane Heat have announced to honor Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi, naming a stand at the Gabba ‘Shaheen’s Fan Bay’.

Shaheen will make his debut in the upcoming edition of the tournament after being picked in the overseas draft earlier this year.

The ticket for the Shaheen Bay will go on sale soon, with the dedicated zone active during all five of the Brisbane Heat’s home fixtures at the Gabba. The matches are set to be played on December 19, December 27, January 2, January 10, and January 18.

“Best seats in the Gabba to cheer on Shaheen Shah Afridi!”, the franchise wrote in the social media post.

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“Cheer on Shaheen Shah Afridi as he brings the heat in BBL15. These are the best seats in the house to support one of the world’s most exciting fast bowlers – surrounded by passionate fans, music, and cultural pride. Show your cultural flair. Make some noise for Shaheen and the Heat!”, it added.

Earlier, Melbourne Stars announced “House of Rauf”, a stand dedicated for Pakistani cricket fans at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has suspended players’ No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for overseas leagues.

According to Cricinfo, Sumair Ahmad Syed has informed the players and agents of the decision on September 29.

“With the approval of Chairman PCB, all No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for players with respect to participation in leagues and other out-of-country tournaments are hereby put on hold until further orders,” the report quoted the notification.

However, the reason behind the decision is unknown. The report further stated that the PCB wants to link the NOCs to a performance-based system for which the criteria have not been made public.

It is worth mentioning that Pakistani players were among the popular selections in the BBL 15 overseas draft held earlier this year.

Babar Azam was roped in by the Sydney Sixers, whereas Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi were drafted by the Melbourne Renegades and the Brisbane Heat.

Haris Rauf, a regular in the BBL, was retained by Melbourne Stars, the franchise where he has become a fan favourite over the years with his pace and aggression.

READ: PCB suspends players’ NOCs for overseas T20 leagues

PCB suspends players’ NOCs for overseas T20 leagues

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has barred national players from participating in overseas T20 leagues following the Asia Cup 2025 final.

According to Cricinfo, Sumair Ahmad Syed has informed the players and agents of the decision on September 29.

However, the reason behind the decision is unknown. The report further stated that the PCB wants to link the NOCs to a performance-based system for which the criteria have not been made public.

The move came a day after Pakistan’s last-over defeat against arch-rivals India in the Asia Cup 2025 final.

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The decision puts Pakistan’s key players Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi’s participation in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025 in doubt.

It is worth mentioning that Pakistani players were among the popular selections in the BBL 15 overseas draft held earlier this year.

Babar Azam was roped in by the Sydney Sixers, whereas Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi were drafted by the Melbourne Renegades and the Brisbane Heat.

Haris Rauf, a regular in the BBL, was retained by Melbourne Stars, the franchise where he has become a fan favourite over the years with his pace and aggression.

Shadab Khan will return to the BBL circuit as well, having been drafted by the Sydney Thunder. Meanwhile, in-form pace bowler Hasan Ali found a new home in Australia, picked by the Adelaide Strikers to bolster their bowling attack.

Notably, Pakistan’s gap in the ICC Future Tours Programme (FTP) from November to February provides their top cricketers a window of opportunity to participate in the BBL 15.

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Ravichandran Ashwin likely to make historic BBL debut

Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is on the verge of creating history as the first capped Indian male cricketer to feature in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL).

Four franchises, the Sydney Thunder, Hobart Hurricanes, Sydney Sixers, and Adelaide Strikers, are reportedly in the race to secure his services for the latter stages of the upcoming season, with the Thunder and Hurricanes emerging as frontrunners.

A final decision is expected later this week.

Ashwin’s potential signing comes at a time when the BBL has also seen a surge of Pakistani talent, raising the possibility of an Indo-Pak reunion in Australia.

For India, Ashwin’s participation marks a historic moment. No internationally capped Indian male player has previously featured in the BBL, largely due to BCCI regulations that prohibit only retired cricketers from participating in overseas franchise leagues.

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Ashwin’s decision to step away from the IPL earlier this year has now opened the door for him to explore opportunities abroad.

In recent years, several former Indian stars have pursued similar paths. Dinesh Karthik appeared for Paarl Royals in the SA20, Ambati Rayudu played in the CPL and ILT20, while Robin Uthappa, Yusuf Pathan, and Suresh Raina have also represented franchises overseas.

Ravichandran Ashwin has already registered for the ILT20 auction in the UAE, set for next Tuesday.

If signed, he will feature in the tournament from December 2 to January 4. The BBL season runs from December 14 to January 25, leaving him available for three to four matches plus the finals should his team qualify.

READ: Pakistan set to depart for ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 today

Mohammad Haris reacts after being overlooked in BBL 15 draft

LAHORE: Pakistan’s dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, Mohammad Haris, has shared his thoughts after not being selected in the Big Bash League (BBL) 15 draft, held on Thursday in Melbourne.

Despite being among the 74 Pakistani players registered for the BBL 15 draft, Haris was not picked by any of the eight franchises.

The BBL 15 Draft saw six of the eight franchises show interest in Pakistan’s top players, with five national stars eventually earning contracts.

Meanwhile, star batter Babar Azam was pre-signed by the Sydney Sixers ahead of the BBL 15 draft.

Speaking to the media during the ongoing skills development camp at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore, Haris maintained a composed stance over the snub.

“The Big Bash League (BBL) is a prestigious tournament, and I wish the best to all the players participating,” Mohammad Haris said.

“But at the moment, my priority is national duty. These league opportunities come and go, and I’ll consider them only when I’m fully available and ready.”

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The 24-year-old remains part of the PCB’s current training camp aimed at addressing technical and tactical shortcomings across formats. He credited the camp for helping players recalibrate their game and focus on finer details.

“This camp is crucial for us because we’re working on the errors that the coaches identified. Today’s scenario match is part of that process—to iron out those mistakes in a match-like environment,” he explained.

Known for his aggressive batting style, Haris stressed the importance of evolving as a complete batter, especially in the modern game.

“I’ve always been known for my boundary-hitting, but now I’m focusing more on strike rotation because consistency is just as crucial,” he said.

“I’m also working hard to improve my defensive game, which is essential for all formats.”

He also highlighted his growing interest in red-ball cricket and a desire to break into Pakistan’s Test setup.

“I’ve enjoyed playing red-ball cricket in the domestic circuit, and now I’m determined to perform well enough to earn a place in the national Test squad,” he added.

READ: Mohammad Haris eyes red-ball spot, focused on fixing flaws

Melbourne Renegades GM hails Rizwan signing as major BBL 15 coup

Melbourne Renegades General Manager James Rosengarten has described the signing of Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan as a “massive win” for the franchise in the BBL 15 overseas draft.

Speaking on a recent podcast, Rosengarten couldn’t hide his delight at bringing one of world cricket’s most reliable performers into the Renegades’ setup.

“To bring in a player of Mohammad Rizwan’s calibre at Pick 3 is a massive win for us,” Rosengarten said.

“He’s one of the best in the world—reliable, experienced, and a calm presence both on and off the field.

“He has successfully led teams and will be a great fit for the squad we’re building.”

Rosengarten underlined Rizwan’s versatility and temperament as key assets that will complement the squad being assembled for the upcoming season.

“What makes Mohammad Rizwan so valuable is his ability to anchor an innings while keeping the scoreboard ticking,” he added.

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“With players like Jake Fraser-McGurk, Josh Brown, and Tim Seifert around him, we believe our top order could be one of the most exciting in the competition.”

While Rizwan brings proven stability at the top, his skill behind the stumps also offers the Renegades flexibility with wicketkeeping duties, given the presence of New Zealand’s Seifert in the squad.

“Rizwan is also a world-class wicketkeeper, which gives us options behind the stumps. Both he and Tim will bring great energy to the field,” he further stated.

The 33-year-old batter will be making his BBL debut, having previously starred in other major leagues, including the CPL.

In a video shared by the Melbourne Renegades, Mohammad Rizwan sent a heartfelt message to his new fans.

“Assalam-u-alaikum and good morning, Australia. It’s a great honour to join the Melbourne Renegades. I have always admired how they play with heart,” he said.

“I’m very excited to wear the No.16 jersey, meet the passionate Melbourne fans and give my very best. Inshallah. Thank you.”

READ: Melbourne Stars GM eyes Haris Rauf vs Babar Azam showdown in BBL 15

How much will Babar Azam earn during his BBL stint with Sydney Sixers?

Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam has become one of the highest-paid players in Big Bash League (BBL) history after signing with the Sydney Sixers for the upcoming season 15 of the league.

According to sources, the Sixers have pre-signed Babar in the Platinum category, but the agreement reportedly exceeds the standard base price of PKR 7.75 crore, with his deal valued close to PKR 10 crore.

The Sixers used their option to pre-sign one overseas player ahead of the BBL 15 draft scheduled for June 19, and they made a massive statement by roping in one of world cricket’s most consistent and bankable performers.

The 30-year-old has over 10,000 international runs, is a former ICC Cricketer of the Year, and remains a modern-day great in the white-ball formats.

Babar has captained Pakistan across all three formats from 2019 to 2024, leading the side to the 2021 T20 World Cup semi-final and the 2022 final.

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He holds multiple records, including being the fastest to 5,000 ODI runs (97 innings), and has previously featured in top leagues such as the PSL, CPL, and various English T20 tournaments.

With more than 11,000 runs in T20s, Babar’s presence instantly elevates the Sixers’ campaign.

Babar Azam will be available for the entire BBL 15 season, including the finals, offering the Sydney Sixers not just a big-name signing but a player with proven match-winning ability and composure under pressure.

It’s worth noting that a total of 74 Pakistani male cricketers and 11 female players have thrown their hats in the ring for the BBL and Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) drafts, scheduled on June 19.

Pakistan’s T20I captain Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Haris, Abrar Ahmed, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf, Usama Mir, and Mohammad Hasnain are among the notable names to register for the BBL 15 Draft.

READ: Arshad Nadeem makes Forbes ‘30 Under 30’ South Asia list

Mitchell Owen equals record with fastest ton as Hobart Hurricanes win BBL title

HOBART: Mitchell Owen blasted a record-equalling century off just 39 balls to propel the Hobart Hurricanes to their first Big Bash League (BBL) title over David Warner’s Sydney Thunder at Bellerive Oval here on Monday.

Owen smashed 11 sixes in his 108 off 42 balls in an astonishing display of power hitting to guide the Hurricanes to an emphatic seven-wicket victory with 35 balls to spare.

Owen equalled the BBL record fastest century set by Craig Simmons for the Perth Scorchers in the 2014 season.

Thunder were thought to have made a competitive total batting first with 182 for seven before Owen’s pyrotechnics rocketed the Hurricanes into an impregnable position, with Ben McDermott hitting the winning runs in his unbeaten 18 along with Matt Wade 32.

Man of the Match Owen is bound to besieged with offers to play in overseas T20 leagues after his incredible knock, which had the Hobart crowd chanting his name with each prodigious six.

“It’s an amazing feeling, I’m lost for words,” Mitchell Owen said. “I tried to do what I did all season: get us off to a good start and take it easy up through the middle — and luckily it worked out.”

When Owen finally fell with another lusty blow to be caught in the deep in the 11th over, the Hurricanes needed less than a run a ball for victory.

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It was the Hobart Hurricanes’ first BBL final in seven years, with the Sydney Thunder looking to win their first championship since 2016.

From a disastrous start to the BBL season, where they were bowled out for just 74, the Hurricanes finished the eventual champions after chasing down their target with ease and overs to spare.

Jason Sangha earlier smashed 67 off 42 balls studded with two sixes and five fours in Thunder’s 182 for seven batting first.

Sangha shared in Thunder’s best opening stand of the BBL season with 97 along with David Warner 48 off 32 before the Hurricanes hit back, taking seven for 85.

Warner looked in good touch before was caught behind by Matt Wade off Ellis, who struck the next ball when Matthew Gilkes chopped onto his stumps for a golden duck.

Englishman Sam Billings avoided the hat trick and went on to club 20 from 14 before he was bowled by Riley Meredith.

Skipper Ellis captured 3-23 and Meredith 3-27 to stymie Thunder’s scoring after the 10-over drinks.

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Usama Mir joins Melbourne Stars as sole Pakistan pick in BBL Draft

Melbourne Stars picked leg-spinner Usama Mir during the annual draft for Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) 2024, making him the only player from Pakistan to be selected for the upcoming season.

A total of 69 male cricketers and 11 female cricketers were put forward as nominees in the drafts for the Big Bash League (BBL) and the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL).

Despite the high number of nominees, except Usama, none of the Pakistan players were considered for selection.

Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan, Imad Wasim, Zaman Khan, Naseem Shah, Fakhar Zaman, Shan Masood, Saim Ayub, Usman Qadir, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Umar Akmal, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Haider Ali and Mohammad Hasnain were among the Pakistani nominees for BBL draft.

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Meanwhile, Pakistan’s women players Fatima Sana, Nida Dar, Diana Baig, Aliya Riaz, and Nashrah Sandhu as well as rising stars Tuba Hasan and Arooba Shah participated in the WBBL draft.

Notably, Usama Mir has previously represented Melbourne Stars in last season, where he claimed five wickets in as many games.

The Big Bash League (BBL) is scheduled to kick off on December 15, with Perth Scorchers clashing against Melbourne Stars in the tournament opener in Perth. The tournament will culminate with the final on January 27, 2025.

Meanwhile, the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) will run from October 27 to December 1, with the opening game seeing Adelaide Strikers take on Brisbane Heat at the Adelaide Oval.

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