Best of Babar Azam Still Ahead Despite Tough BBL Start
Right now, there’s a lot of conversation around Babar Azam and his much-anticipated entry into the Big Bash League, and honestly, it hasn’t gone the way many expected so far. When Babar arrived in Australia this summer, it was seen as one of the biggest signings in the BBL’s 15-year history. A former Pakistan Test captain, a record-holder for the most T20I half-centuries, and the leading run-scorer in Pakistan Super League history, he came with enormous expectations attached to his name.
But cricket, as we know, doesn’t always follow the script. In his first two outings for the Sydney Sixers, Babar has failed to reach double figures. On debut against Perth, he managed just two runs before being caught at mid-on. In the following match against Adelaide, he again found a fielder, this time departing on nine. Those early dismissals have contributed to the Sixers starting their campaign 0–2, something that has happened only a handful of times in the club’s history.
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Despite the slow start, panic hasn’t been allowed to creep into the Sixers’ camp. Veteran wicketkeeper Josh Philippe has been quick to defend his star teammate, pointing out that Australian conditions can be challenging, especially for players adjusting to bouncy pitches. It has been stressed that a couple of games and a few more training sessions can make a huge difference. Babar’s class, according to Philippe, has never been in doubt, and it’s widely believed that runs will start flowing sooner rather than later.
Interestingly, the Sixers have reshuffled their batting order to support Babar. Philippe, who opened in the majority of his previous innings for the club, has been moved to number three. This has been done to allow Babar to open and to ensure Philippe, known for his strength against spin, is at the crease when conditions suit him. The move has been accepted willingly, with Philippe expressing excitement about building partnerships and learning from one of the world’s best batters.
At the same time, social media has been buzzing, especially after other Pakistani stars like Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Shah Afridi also endured forgettable BBL debuts. Fans have been vocal, with criticism flying fast and hard, calling the start “horrible” and questioning the hype around the trio. Those reactions, while loud, are nothing new in modern cricket.
What’s worth remembering is that form is temporary, class is permanent. The Sixers themselves have been in this position before and still gone deep into the tournament. With crucial matches coming up, including a rivalry clash against the Sydney Thunder, the stage is set for a response. If history is any guide, it may only be a matter of time before the best of Babar Azam is finally seen in the BBL.
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