Babar Azam falters again as BBL struggles deepen
Pakistan batter Babar Azam again failed to deliver in Australia as he managed another low score in the Big Bash League as Sydney Sixers lost early momentum.
Babar Azam was dismissed for nine off 10 balls on Tuesday. The Sydney Sixers faced the Adelaide Strikers at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
The right-hander’s struggles in Australian conditions continued during the 2025/26 Big Bash League season with raising concerns over his short-format form away from home.
The former Pakistan captain had shown brief intent by striking a single boundary. But otherwise he appeared uncomfortable against pace and bounce.
His innings came to an end when he attempted to loft Luke Wood over the infield, only to find Matthew Short in the deep.
The dismissal followed a disappointing debut for the Sixers earlier this week at a time when Babar scored just two runs against the Perth Scorchers.
Two matches into his BBL campaign, he has yet to cross double figures which had added to a growing narrative around his difficulties in Australia.
Babar Azam’s record in Australian conditions has come under sharp criticism by analysts and fans.
Across formats, his average in Australia remains significantly lower than his career norms, according to ESPNcricinfo data. It reflected persistent challenges against extra bounce and lateral movement.
Babar is one of Pakistan’s most prolific batters and made over 9,000 international runs and multiple ICC awards since 2016.
The Sixers had hoped Babar’s presence would strengthen their top order in BBL 15. But, his early dismissals have placed additional pressure on the middle order and stalled aggressive starts in the powerplay.
Fans reacted with visible frustration at the ground and on social media as they hoped the move would help Babar regain confidence after a mixed 2024 international season.
Babar is not alone among Pakistani players who are facing difficulties in the Big Bash League this season.
Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Shah Afridi also failed to make significant contributions in their opening matches.
The only notable performance has come so far from all-rounder Shadab Khan. He has delivered useful performances with both bat and ball.
Cricket Australia data revealed that the league consistently ranks among the fastest-paced T20 competitions globally. They are relying on average bowling speeds and boundary sizes with unique challenges for subcontinent batters.
As the pressure mounts, attention now has been shifted to upcoming fixtures and to Pakistan seamer Hasan Ali, who is part of the Adelaide Strikers squad.
