Sydney — Former Australian white-ball captain Aaron Finch has heaped praise on Pakistan’s batting maestro Babar Azam, calling him “the greatest player of this decade” ahead of the highly anticipated Big Bash League (BBL) Season 15.
Babar, who was recently signed by the Sydney Sixers in the platinum category of the BBL draft, is set to light up Australian grounds this summer. His signing — reportedly worth around PKR 10 crore, significantly above the base price — has created a buzz among cricket fans down under.
“There’s no bigger name than Babar Azam among the Pakistani players in the BBL draft. Honestly, I think he’s the best player in world cricket right now,” Finch told Australian media while discussing the upcoming season.
Finch, known for leading Australia to their maiden T20 World Cup title in 2021, believes Babar’s inclusion will elevate the standard of the competition and attract more global attention to the BBL.
“For the league, for the fans, this is massive. Watching someone like Babar bat live — I mean, that’s why people buy tickets,” Finch added.
Babar’s BBL Journey Begins
The 29-year-old Pakistani skipper will don the Sydney Sixers jersey for the first time, becoming part of a squad already boasting names like Steve Smith and Sean Abbott. His elegant stroke-play and consistency have made him a household name across cricketing nations, and his presence is expected to bolster the Sixers’ chances of clinching the title.
“I’ve always wanted to experience the Big Bash, and playing in front of Aussie crowds is something I’ve looked forward to,” Babar was quoted as saying after the signing was announced.
Shaheen Afridi Also in the Spotlight
Babar isn’t the only Pakistani player turning heads this season. Finch also lauded left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, calling him a “match-winner” who brings raw pace and wicket-taking ability to any side he plays for.
“Shaheen’s a game-changer. We’ve seen what he can do with the new ball. Having players like him and Babar in the BBL? That’s the kind of star power you want,” Finch noted.
BBL 15 Draft Attracts Global Stars
The BBL 15 draft has drawn some of the biggest names in world cricket, with franchises eager to secure top-tier overseas talent. The addition of Pakistani stars, particularly Babar, is seen as a statement of intent from the league to remain competitive in the global T20 landscape.
Cricket Australia officials hope Babar’s participation, alongside other international heavyweights, will help rekindle interest in the tournament, especially after recent concerns over crowd turnout and player availability.
