Pakistan's cricketing superstar Babar Azam is making a significant impact both on and off the field during his stint with the Sydney Sixers in Australia's Big Bash League (BBL). The affection from the Australian franchise and its fans has been warmly reciprocated, with Sixers' skipper Moises Henriques offering high praise for the former Pakistan captain.
Henriques on Babar's Character and Cricketing Brain
Following the Sixers' victory over the Melbourne Renegades, where Babar scored a crucial half-century, Henriques was asked about the experience of having the global icon in his team. The captain's response was effusive. He described Babar as "a really humble, nice guy" and a genuinely positive presence within the squad.
Henriques emphasized that this wasn't just typical praise for a new player. Given Babar's monumental achievements in world cricket, including being a former No. 1 ranked batter in both ODI and T20I formats, his humility stood out. "He brings a whole lot of humility, obvious game smarts, and he’s really nice to talk cricket with," Henriques stated, highlighting the value of Babar's cricketing intellect.
The 'Babar Parade': A Massive Fan Following in Australia
Beyond his contributions in the dressing room, Babar Azam has brought an extraordinary wave of support to the Sixers' matches. Henriques pointed out that a dedicated section of the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) was reserved exclusively for Babar's supporters, even during an away game for the Sixers.
The skipper noted the electric atmosphere when Babar reached his fifty, with the crowd erupting in celebration. "I guess the parade that comes around and follows him... he has more fans than the Sixers," Henriques remarked with a smile. He also expressed a hopeful ambition to convert some of those passionate followers into long-term Sydney Sixers fans.
Sixers' Current BBL Season and Road Ahead
Despite the boost from Babar's presence, the Sydney Sixers are facing challenges in the Big Bash League 2025–26 season. After five league matches, the team has managed only two victories, placing them sixth in the eight-team standings with four points.
All teams will play a total of ten games in the league stage, with the top four qualifying for the knockout playoffs. The Sixers will be relying on contributions from stars like Babar Azam to improve their form and secure a spot in the finals series.
Babar's integration into the team and his immediate impact with the bat, coupled with his humble demeanour, has clearly made a strong impression on the franchise's leadership and is adding a unique international flavour to the Australian T20 competition.
