LAHORE (Kashmir English): Pakistani cricket stars are set to make a big impact in the BBL draft for the 2025–26 season. Leading the way is national captain Babar Azam, who has already been signed by the Sydney Sixers as a pre-draft international pick.
Three players were selected in the prestigious platinum category during the opening round, highlighting their growing demand in global T20 leagues.
Brisbane Heat kicked off the BBL draft by selecting left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi as their first pick, bolstering their bowling attack. Melbourne Stars retained fast bowler Haris Rauf, who was initially drafted by Adelaide Strikers, ensuring his continued presence in their lineup. Pakistan’s ODI captain, Mohammad Rizwan, will make his BBL debut with Melbourne Renegades after being picked in the first round of the BBL draft.
In subsequent rounds, the Sydney Sixers secured former Pakistan captain Babar Azam as a pre-signing, adding significant star power to their squad. All-rounder Shadab Khan joined the Sydney Thunder, marking his fourth BBL franchise. Melbourne Renegades also drafted young talent Hassan Khan, while Adelaide Strikers picked experienced pacer Hasan Ali.
Pakistani players picked in the BBL draft 2025-26
- Shaheen Shah Afridi (Brisbane Heat, Round 1, Platinum),
- Haris Rauf (Melbourne Stars, Round 1, Retention),
- Mohammad Rizwan (Melbourne Renegades, Round 1, Platinum),
- Babar Azam (Sydney Sixers, Pre-signing),
- Shadab Khan (Sydney Thunder, Round 2),
- Hasan Ali (Adelaide Strikers, Round 3), and
- Hassan Khan (Melbourne Renegades, Round 2).
Babar Azam expressed his excitement about joining the Sydney Sixers. He said he’s looking forward to playing alongside top names like Steve Smith and Josh Hazlewood, and described the Big Bash League as one of the best T20 tournaments in the world.
Thanks to a break in Pakistan’s international calendar, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has granted No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to top players, ensuring full participation in the BBL this season.
The BBL draft not only highlights the growing global appeal of Pakistani cricketers but also opens new doors for them to showcase their talent on one of the biggest stages in franchise T20 cricket.
