Tag: BBL 15

Former Australia T20I captain Aaron Finch has shared his excitement over the prospect of watching Pakistan’s Babar Azam bat with Steve Smith during the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) Season 15.

Earlier this month, the Sydney Sixers signed Babar as their direct overseas player for the full season of BBL 15 ahead of the players’ draft.

With Smith expected to be available for parts of the season, the possibility of the two batting together for the first time has cricket fans buzzing.

“How extraordinary,” said Finch while speaking on The Surge: Big Bash Podcast with host Adam White.

“Steve Smith, anytime he’s played in the Big Bash, he’s looked a class above everybody else.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“Then you throw in probably the most beautiful batter in the world, Babar Azam… I’m sure they’re both looking forward to it as much as we are as fans.”

Aaron Finch believes that instances like these have the power to reignite a fiery sense of motivation, sparking renewed passion within even the most experienced players.

“Steve hasn’t played with Babar before anywhere around the world, so to get that opportunity, they’re the kind of things that keep you going when you’re getting towards the end of your career,” he added.

“I’m not saying for any moment that Steve Smith is towards the end, but as you get on, and you’ve ticked almost every single box, you get a lot of joy out of small things like that.”

READ: Former Indian pacer says Jasprit Bumrah is better than Wasim Akram

Pakistan’s ace pacer Shaheen Afridi eyes another title as he gears up for his maiden Big Bash League (BBL) season with Brisbane Heat. 

The BBL 15 Draft, held in Melbourne on Thursday, 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.

Shaheen’s selection as the No. 1 Platinum pick headlines a strong Pakistani presence in the league this season.

Speaking during The Surge Podcast, Shaheen shed light on playing in Australia, as well as featuring in the marquee league for the first time.

The left-arm pacer aimed for glory with the Brisbane Heat, noting that this would make his maiden season in the tournament more memorable.

“That will be amazing — to win one more trophy. It would make my first season even more special. In the PSL, we won three trophies, and it’s all about the players and how the management gives you that cushion to enjoy your cricket,” he said.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“That’s the main thing. I’m really hopeful — Brisbane Heat are a very good side, and I’m looking forward to winning another trophy with them,” Shaheen added.

The left-arm pacer also talked about his signature wicket-taking celebration, along with performing in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

“It will be even more special if I get a wicket in the first over again,” he said.

“I’ll put all my energy into the celebration, and with the support of the crowd behind me, it’ll feel amazing. I’ll be even happier if both Pakistani and Australian fans cheer and call out ‘Afridi’ when I’m at the top of my run-up. That will really pump me up, and I think I’ll enjoy it even more,” he stated.

Shaheen Afridi, who recently led Lahore Qalandars to their third title in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) revealed his favourite wickets in the upcoming season of BBL.

“For me, it’s all three. I wouldn’t pick just one because all of them are crucial wickets. They’re key players for their teams, and I’d love to dismiss each of them,” he concluded.

READ: WATCH: Players participate in scenario-based matches at PCB skill development camp

Melbourne Stars General Manager Max Abbott has made it clear that retaining Haris Rauf for BBL Season 15 was a top priority, revealing that the franchise fended off strong interest from rival teams to keep the Pakistani speedster on their roster.

In a candid statement following the BBL 15 overseas draft, Abbott confirmed that Adelaide Strikers had targeted Rauf but were forced to back off after the Stars refused to release him.

“Haris Rauf is a fan favourite and a valuable asset to our team,” Abbott said. “We knew other teams were interested in him, but we weren’t willing to let him go.”

Abbott lauded Rauf’s impact beyond the field, calling him a key figure in the dressing room and a role model for younger bowlers.

“He’s not just a match-winner. He’s someone other bowlers learn from. That’s why keeping him was non-negotiable for us,” he stated.

But all eyes are now on the mouth-watering clash against the Sydney Sixers, who have signed Babar Azam as a pre-draft marquee pick. Abbott didn’t shy away from the hype surrounding the Pakistan stars’ face-off.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“We’re excited to see Haris Rauf take on Babar at the MCG. I’m sure he has a few plans up his sleeve to exploit Babar’s weaknesses,” said Abbott.

He also acknowledged the influence of the Pakistani community in Melbourne, calling Rauf’s popularity a big plus for the team’s fan engagement.

“The Pakistan community is huge here, and it’s great to have their favourite player in the Stars colours. He brings excitement and pride with every appearance.”

Haris Rauf, who is currently featuring in MLC 2025 for the San Francisco Unicorns, has been with the Stars since 2019.

In 22 BBL matches, he has bagged 36 wickets at an economy of 7.75, and remains one of the most dangerous bowlers at the death.

Rauf’s retention comes amid a strong Pakistan presence in BBL 15, with Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shadab Khan and Hasan Ali all picked up by various franchises during the draft.

READ: Three Pakistani players join Rangpur Riders for Global Super League 2025

Pakistan One Day International (ODI) captain Mohammad Rizwan has shared his thoughts after joining Melbourne Renegades for the Big Bash League (BBL) 15.

Rizwan was selected by Melbourne with the third pick in the BBL overseas draft. The wicket-keeper batter shared his thoughts in a video message on the franchise’s official page.

“Assalam-u-alaikum and good morning, Australia. It’s a great honour to join the Melbourne Renegades,” said Mohammad Rizwan.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Melbourne Renegades (@renegadesbbl)

“I have always admired how they play with heart. I’m very excited to wear the No.16 jersey, meet the passionate Melbourne fans and giving my very best. Inshallah. Thank you,” Mohammad Rizwan concluded.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

It is pertinent to mention that 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.

For the unversed, the BBL 15 Draft, held in Melbourne on Thursday, saw six of the eight franchises show interest in Pakistan’s top players, with five national stars eventually earning contracts.

Star batter Babar Azam was pre-signed by the Sydney Sixers ahead of the BBL 15 draft, while Shaheen’s selection as the No. 1 Platinum pick headlines a strong Pakistani presence in the league this season.

Speedster Haris Rauf, retained by Melbourne Stars, continues his association with the franchise he has served since 2019. Rauf is currently active in the MLC 2025 with San Francisco Unicorns.

Shadab Khan, drafted by the Sydney Thunder, marks his fourth BBL stint. The leg-spinner has already represented Brisbane Heat, Sydney Sixers, and Hobart Hurricanes, tallying 14 wickets in 12 matches at an economy of 7.50.

Hasan Ali, selected by Adelaide Strikers, will also make his BBL debut. The experienced right-arm pacer has previously featured in the LPL, CPL, and BPL.

READ: Hasan Ali opens up after Adelaide Strikers signing for BBL 15

Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali has shared his excitement after being named in the Adelaide Strikers squad for the Big Bash League (BBL) 15. 

Hasan, who will feature in the marquee league for the first time, took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his excitement.

“Super excited to represent @StrikersBBL in #BBL15, Can’t wait to get started. Australia, see you soon!” he wrote.

Pacer Hasan Ali, who returned to the Pakistan team after an injury in the series against Bangladesh, has been in red-hot form with the ball. The Gujranwala-born pacer has picked up eight wickets in three matches.

The 30-year-old currently playing for the Birmingham Bears in the T20 blast has scalped 11 wickets in five matches so far, including a terrific six-wicket haul.

It is pertinent to mention that 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.

For the unversed, the BBL 15 Draft, held in Melbourne on Thursday, saw six of the eight franchises show interest in Pakistan’s top players, with five national stars eventually earning contracts.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

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

Shaheen’s selection as the No. 1 Platinum pick headlines a strong Pakistani presence in the league this season.

In addition to this, Mohammad Rizwan was picked fourth in the Platinum round by Melbourne Renegades. The seasoned wicketkeeper-batter is aiming to make a strong statement ahead of the T20 World Cup next year.

Speedster Haris Rauf, retained by Melbourne Stars, continues his association with the franchise he has served since 2019. Rauf is currently active in the MLC 2025 with San Francisco Unicorns.

READ: ‘No fear’: Ben Stokes downplays the Jasprit Bumrah threat ahead of opening Test

Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan has shared his thoughts after being picked up by the Big Bash League (BBL) franchise, Sydney Thunder, for the 15th edition of the tournament.

Sharing his thoughts via a social media post, Shadab Khan remained optimistic about participating in one of the global T20 cricket marquee leagues.

“Excited to join @thunderbbl. Always a test to play in the BBL. Australian conditions bring a new challenge each time,” Shadab wrote.

Shadab Khan will play for his fourth BBL franchise, having previously featured for the Brisbane Heat, Sydney Sixers, and Hobart Hurricanes. Shadab Khan has 14 wickets in 12 matches to his name at an economy of 7.50.

For the unversed, the BBL 15 Draft, held in Melbourne on Thursday, saw six of the eight franchises show interest in Pakistan’s top players, with five national stars eventually earning contracts.

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.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

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

Shaheen’s selection as the No. 1 Platinum pick headlines a strong Pakistani presence in the league this season.

In addition to this, Mohammad Rizwan was picked fourth in the Platinum round by Melbourne Renegades. The seasoned wicketkeeper-batter is aiming to make a strong statement ahead of the T20 World Cup next year.

Speedster Haris Rauf, retained by Melbourne Stars, continues his association with the franchise he has served since 2019. Rauf is currently active in the MLC 2025 with San Francisco Unicorns.

Hasan Ali, selected by Adelaide Strikers, will also make his BBL debut. The experienced right-arm pacer has previously featured in the LPL, CPL, and BPL.

READ: Shaheen, Rizwan among Pakistan players picked in BBL 15 draft

Pakistan’s pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi has expressed his excitement after being snapped up by Brisbane Heat as the first overall overseas pick in the Big Bash League (BBL) 15 Draft.

The BBL 15 Draft, held in Melbourne on Thursday, 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.

Shaheen’s selection as the No. 1 Platinum pick headlines a strong Pakistani presence in the league this season.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

He will be available for the entire BBL campaign, including the finals, adding firepower to a Heat side already stacked with talent.

In a video message shared by the Brisbane Heat on its official social platforms, the 25-year-old left-arm quick shared his thoughts on joining the reigning BBL champions.

“Hello everyone, I am excited to join Brisbane Heat for my first Big Bash season. Bowling at the Gabba is always very special. Looking forward to meeting all the Heat fans this summer. See you all. Thank you,” said Shaheen Afridi.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Brisbane Heat (@heatbbl)

Moreover, Mohammad Rizwan was picked fourth in the Platinum round by Melbourne Renegades. The seasoned wicketkeeper-batter is aiming to make a strong statement ahead of the T20 World Cup next year.

Haris Rauf, retained by Melbourne Stars, continues his association with the franchise he has served since 2019. Rauf is currently active in the MLC 2025 with San Francisco Unicorns.

Shadab Khan, drafted by the Sydney Thunder, marks his fourth BBL stint. The leg-spinner has already represented Brisbane Heat, Sydney Sixers, and Hobart Hurricanes, tallying 14 wickets in 12 matches at an economy of 7.50.

Hasan Ali, selected by Adelaide Strikers, will also make his BBL debut. The experienced right-arm pacer has previously featured in the LPL, CPL, and BPL.

READ: Babar Azam opts out of PCB’s skills development camp after two days

Former Australia captain Aaron Finch has hailed Pakistan’s top batter Babar Azam as one of ‘greatest players of the decade ahead of his much awaited Big Bash League (BBL) 15 debut.

Speaking during a recent interview, Finch acknowledged Babar’s stature in global cricket.

“There’s no bigger name than Babar Azam among Pakistani players in the BBL draft,” said Finch ahead of BBL 15 draft to be held on 19 June.

The T20 world cup winning captain hailed Babar Azam’s top performances around the world while highlighting his inclusion as a great thing to witness for Australia fans.

“He is the biggest name among all Pakistani cricketers. Babar is currently the best player in world cricket and arguably the greatest player of this decade. He has delivered top performances around the world, and it’s great for Australian fans to witness a superstar like him play in Australia,” Aaron Finch added.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Apart from Babar, Aaron Finch also talked about ace pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi who recently clinched third title for Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10.

“Shaheen Shah Afridi is a match-winner and a top performer. Every team would want to have him. I’m excited to see top players competing in the Big Bash,” Finch remarked.

It is noteworthy to mention that, former Pakistan captain Babar Azam has become one of the highest-paid players in BBL history after signing with the Sydney Sixers for the upcoming season.

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.

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.

For the unversed, 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: Salman Ali Agha nominated for BBL draft as full list of overseas players revealed

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.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

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

England wicketkeeper batter Sam Billings has heaped high praise on Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam, calling him ‘king’ ahead of the much-awaited Big Bash League (BBL) 15. 

While speaking on the tournament’s official page, Sam Billings called Babar Azam the king while emphasising the importance of his addition to the league.

“He is King Babar Azam, as they call him. He’s been such a world-class performer for such a long time. Any competition featuring a player like Babar Azam benefits not only the Sixers, as you said, but the tournament as a whole,” Sam Billings said.

“I’ve played a lot against him, and I’d much rather have him on my side than against me. I’m definitely looking forward to those Sydney derbies again,” Sam Billings added.

For the unversed, Pakistan’s batting superstar Babar Azam was signed by the Sydney Sixers a few days earlier. The franchise called the signing ‘one of the biggest acquisitions in the league’s history’.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Following the announcement of the signing, Babar expressed his gratitude for joining the Sydney Sixers franchise.

“I’m very proud to be joining the Sydney Sixers for the upcoming season,” Babar said.

“It’s an exciting opportunity to play in one of the world’s best T20 leagues and to be a part of such a successful and respected franchise,” he added.

The right-handed batter also expressed his joy at sharing the dressing room with the biggest names in world cricket.

“I’m very excited to share the dressing room with world-class players like Steve Smith and Josh Hazlewood,” he remarked.

Babar Azam stated that he is eagerly waiting for BBL 15.

“I’ve played a lot of cricket in Australia, but I’ve been eagerly waiting for a chance to feature in the BBL,” he concluded.

READ: Pakistan batter signs with Yorkshire for County Championship, Vitality Blast