Sydney, December 20, 2025: Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam registered his first-ever Big Bash League (BBL) half-century on Saturday, guiding the Sydney Sixers with a composed innings of 58 off 42 balls in the Sydney Derby against Sydney Thunder at the Sydney Showground Stadium.
The 31-year-old, who had struggled in his early BBL outings, opened alongside Daniel Hughes after Thunder skipper David Warner won the toss and elected to field. Babar was immediately tested by Reece Topley, facing a well-directed yorker aimed at the off-stump, but he dug it out and guided it safely to mid-on. He then found his rhythm with a trademark cover drive off Nathan McAndrew, putting him firmly on the front foot.
Babar reached his maiden BBL fifty off 38 deliveries before being caught behind off Topley in the 16th over. His innings included five boundaries and two sixes, providing crucial stability to the Sixers’ batting lineup. Josh Philippe led the charge with a 57-ball 96, featuring six fours and four sixes, as the pair stitched together a 140-run second-wicket partnership that propelled Sydney Sixers to a competitive total of 198/5 in their 20 overs.
Babar had a challenging start to his BBL career, making just two in his debut against Perth Scorchers and nine against Adelaide Strikers in his second match. Saturday’s performance, however, marked a turning point, earning widespread praise from fans and cricket enthusiasts across social media for his “phenomenal display.”
The innings not only showcased Babar’s class and composure but also provided a timely boost to the Sixers’ campaign in the 2025-26 BBL season.
