"Pakistan superstars?" - Fan's mock after Pakistan trio’s nightmare debut in BBL 15

The 2025–26 Big Bash League began with huge expectations around Pakistan’s biggest cricketing names, but the much-hyped debuts of Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Shah Afridi ended in disappointment, triggering mixed reactions from fans and experts alike.

Babar Azam’s BBL journey started under the spotlight on December 14, when he turned out for the Sydney Sixers against Perth Scorchers at Optus Stadium. Rain reduced the contest to an 11-overs-a-side affair, putting immediate pressure on batters to adapt. Opening the innings, Babar looked uncomfortable against the extra bounce and pace on offer. He managed just 2 runs from 5 balls before edging a delivery from debutant Brody Couch and being caught at mid-on. The early dismissal was a stark contrast to the excitement around his signing, with the Sixers even unveiling a special “Babaristan” fan zone to welcome their marquee recruit.

Challenging Australian conditions test Rizwan and Shaheen on debut

The following day, December 15, saw Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi make their debuts in the clash between Melbourne Renegades and Brisbane Heat at Simonds Stadium, Geelong. Rizwan, batting at No. 3 for the Renegades, attempted to play more aggressively than usual but failed to find rhythm. He struggled for timing and scored only 4 runs off 10 deliveries before falling to spinner Paddy Dooley. Despite his lack of contribution, the Renegades piled up a massive 212/5, courtesy of a blistering century from Tim Seifert.

Shaheen Afridi’s outing with the ball was arguably the toughest. Drafted as Brisbane Heat’s No. 1 pick, the left-arm pacer began well but quickly lost control in the death overs. He bowled two dangerous waist-high beamers in the 18th over and was subsequently taken out of the attack. Shaheen ended with figures of 0/43 in just 2.4 overs, conceding runs through no-balls and wides as the batters went after him.

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These early struggles highlight how challenging Australian conditions can be, especially for players adjusting to bounce, pace and franchise pressure. While social media labelled it a “horrible start” for the Pakistan trio, many also called for patience. With the season just beginning, the spotlight now shifts to how quickly Babar, Rizwan and Shaheen can respond and turn promise into performance.

Twitter reacts as Pakistan stars endure nightmare BBL debuts