Watch: Sydney Sixers releases Babar Azam with 'Thank you' message ahead of BBL 2025/26 knockout

The Sydney Sixers will be without their opening international batter, Babar Azam, for the remainder of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025/26finals, as the franchise has announced the veteran's requirement for the national team camp. The Sixers made the announcement just 24 hours before they had a knockout game against the Hobart Hurricanes at the home ground.

Babar Azam had initially been available for the entire event and was not selected for Pakistan’s three-match T20 series against Sri Lanka in early January. Australia will play Pakistan in a three-match T20I series, starting on January 29.

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“The Sydney Sixers have today been informed that Sixers opener Babar Azam is required to return to Pakistan to join his national teammates in camp, as preparations commence for upcoming international matches. As a result, Babar will depart Australia immediately and will not be available for selection for the remainder of the BBL|15 Finals Series.” The Sixers expressed in a statement.

Babar Azam leaves Sydney Sixers in midway of BBL 2025/26

The Pakistan right-handed batter finished his first stint of the BBL with 202 runs in 11 games at an average of 22.44 and a strike rate of just over 100, despite making two half-centuries as he experienced a difficult season with the bat.

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“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 on 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.” Babar addressed.

“The Sydney Sixers are sincerely grateful for the opportunity to have had Babar represent the club during his time in Australia. While we had initially planned for Babar to be available throughout the Finals, he has been an immensely valued member of our group, and we fully understand that the commencement of Pakistan's national camp means preparations are now underway for upcoming matches.” The general manager of the franchise, Rachael Haynes, informed.