Sydney, October 9, 2025: Australia’s premier fast bowler Mitchell Starc is set to make a long-awaited return to the Big Bash League (BBL), joining Pakistan captain Babar Azam at the Sydney Sixers for the upcoming BBL 15 season.
The Sixers confirmed Starc’s comeback in a post on social media, writing: “After 11 seasons, Mitch Starc is back in magenta. He’s expected to link up with the squad following the Ashes series.”
Starc, who recently retired from T20 international cricket, said his post-Ashes schedule allowed him to make a BBL comeback. “I’ve got no cricket scheduled between the fifth Test and the IPL at this stage,” he explained. “An opportunity to play some BBL cricket — I’ve obviously been part of the Sixers for a small part of the 15 seasons, so it’s nice to return and potentially play a few games.
“Obviously, we’ve got five Test matches to focus on first, but post that, it’s my intention to be available to play some part if called upon,” he added.
Starc last featured in the 2014–15 BBL season, where he played 10 matches, taking 20 wickets at an average of 14.85 and an economy rate of 7.92. His return is expected to significantly strengthen a Sixers side already stacked with world-class talent, including Babar Azam, Steve Smith, and Josh Hazlewood.
The BBL 15 season is shaping up to be one of the most star-studded editions in the league’s history, with top international players joining various franchises. Pakistani cricketers were among the most sought-after in this year’s overseas draft:
- Babar Azam was picked by the Sydney Sixers,
- Mohammad Rizwan joined the Melbourne Renegades,
- Shaheen Afridi signed with the Brisbane Heat, and
- Haris Rauf was retained by the Melbourne Stars, where he remains a fan favourite.
The BBL 15 will kick off on December 14 with a high-voltage opener between the Sydney Sixers and the Perth Scorchers in Perth.
