‘Will now have to leave team’ - Babar Azam’s special message for Sydney Sixers supporters before leaving for Pakistan duty

Babar Azam has left a special note for Sydney Sixers supporters as he is set to leave the team midway through the Big Bash League 2025-26. It was recently announced that the batter has been called for Pakistan’s national camp. 

The Sixers are scheduled to face the Hobart Hurricanes in a crucial playoff match, with the winner of the contest qualifying for the final against the Perth Scorchers. The 31-year-old, in his statement, thanked the fans for their constant support while announcing his departure ahead of the playoff contest.  

“First of all, thank you so much Sydney Sixers for having me, all the boys, all the coaches and I have very (much) enjoyed my time. Unfortunately, I will now have to leave the team, to go to national duty. I have a lot of things I have to take back home- a lot of fun, a lot of positive things, so I have enjoyed it a lot. Especially, thank you to the Sydney Sixers fans there is always support there, lot of support, a lot of encouragement, a lot of fun, so I have very enjoyed that vibe at Sydney Cricket Ground, so thank you so much.” Azam said in a statement.

The star batter had a horrific run with the bat in the BBL for the Sixers, managing just 202 runs at a poor strike rate of 103. 

‘I don’t think he’s done enough’ - Mark Waugh on dropping Babar 

Before Babar’s announcement came, former Australian captain Mark Waugh had urged the Magenta team to drop Azam ahead of their knock-out clash, citing his poor run of form throughout the season. 

"They need to rejig their batting, because at the moment it’s almost entirely reliant on Steve Smith. At the moment there’s not a lot of players in form, so I’m bringing in either (Daniel) Hughes or (Jordan) Silk. Unfortunately, I’m going to have to drop Babar Azam, I don’t think he’s done enough at the top of the order. I know he’s world-class, but you’re thinking about winning this tournament, and so far he just hasn’t done (enough). I’m thinking about a new opener,” Waugh had told Fox Cricket.

After a disappointing loss to the finalists, failing to chase a modest target of 148 runs, the three-time BBL champions will look to bounce back and claim a spot in the finals.