In a major boost for the reigning Big Bash League champions, the Hobart Hurricanes have confirmed the re-signing of explosive middle-order batter Tim David on a two-year contract, locking him in until the end of BBL 16.

David, who was a driving force behind Hobart’s title-winning campaign in BBL 14, knocked back interest from rival BBL clubs including both Melbourne franchises to remain part of the ‘Cane Train’. His match-winning abilities with the bat, especially during the tense back end of games, made him one of the most sought-after players on the market. “I’m super excited to re-sign with the Hurricanes for another two seasons,” David said. “Last year was special, and I can't wait to do it all again next summer.”

BBL 14: David at His Best

The 28-year-old produced his best Big Bash season to date in BBL 14, scoring 254 runs at an average of 42.33 and an astonishing strike rate of 177.62. Nicknamed the "Surge Goliath" by fans and commentators, David smashed 114 runs in the two-over Power Surge period alone, striking a jaw-dropping 285.

His heroics were crucial in clutch wins against the Adelaide Strikers, Sydney Thunder, and Melbourne Renegades three consecutive victories that ultimately helped the Hurricanes reach the finals and claim their first BBL title.

Since joining the Hurricanes from the Perth Scorchers in BBL 10, David has amassed 1,217 runs at a strike rate of 159.92, including four fifties. Known for his clean power hitting and athleticism in the outfield, he has become a central figure in the Hurricanes’ rise to championship status.

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Leadership and Loyalty

Cricket Tasmania General Manager of High Performance, Salliann Beams, praised David’s impact on and off the field. “Tim has been instrumental in shaping what we’re building here in Hobart. His leadership last season played a massive role in helping the team win our first championship,” Beams said. “He’s a game-changer, and we’re lucky to have him on our side.”

David’s decision to stay comes after months of speculation and reported offers from multiple clubs. Despite being uncontracted during the post-season Player Movement Window, the Hurricanes’ continued faith and vision have won out.

Hurricanes Squad Taking Shape for BBL 15

With David’s re-signing, 15 of the 18 available squad spots are now filled for BBL 15. The Hurricanes also added key names in Jake Weatherald (Adelaide Strikers) and Beau Webster (Melbourne Stars), while Caleb Jewell has departed for the Renegades.

Current Contracted Players for BBL 15:

Batters & All-rounders: Tim David, Ben McDermott, Mitch Owen, Matt Wade, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster, Mac Wright, Nikhil Chaudhary

Bowlers: Nathan Ellis, Riley Meredith, Billy Stanlake, Iain Carlisle

Overseas Players: Rehan Ahmed (England), Rishad Hossain (Bangladesh), Chris Jordan (England)

Uncontracted Players: Marcus Bean, Paddy Dooley, Jake Doran, Cameron Gannon, Peter Hatzoglou, Shai Hope, Waqar Salamkheil, Charlie Wakim, Tim Ward

The Hurricanes are set to begin their BBL 15 campaign on December 16, with a grand final rematch against the Sydney Thunder at Ninja Stadium. They’ll aim to become the first franchise to win back-to-back titles since the Perth Scorchers’ run in BBL 11 and BBL 12. Details on memberships, tickets, and match schedules will be released soon. Fans can sign up for pre-sale access at bigbash.com.au.

The KFC Big Bash League (BBL) 2025–26 is almost here, and excitement is building fast among cricket fans around the world. With Australia’s top T20 league entering its 15th season, fans are eagerly looking for the full match schedule, team lists, live broadcast info, and key dates to mark on their calendars.

This year’s edition begins on December 21, 2025, and will wrap up with a thrilling final on January 25, 2026. With returning rivalries, packed stadiums, and the possibility of Test stars joining after the Ashes series, the season promises non-stop cricketing entertainment.

 BBL 2025–26 Tournament Overview

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BBL Playoff Format

The top four teams after the league phase will qualify for the playoffs:

• Qualifier: 1st vs 2nd - Winner advances to the Final
• Knockout: 3rd vs 4th -Loser eliminated
• Challenger: Loser of Qualifier vs Winner of Knockout
• Final: Winner of Qualifier vs Winner of Challenger

Where to Watch BBL 2025–26 Live

• India: Sony Sports Network & Sony LIV
• Australia: Fox Sports, Seven Network & Kayo Sports
• USA: Willow TV
• UK: Sky Sports Cricket
• Pakistan: Ten Sports
• New Zealand: Sky Sport NZ
• MENA: BeIN Sports
• Canada: CBN & ATN Cricket Plus

Live radio commentary will also be available on SEN Radio in Australia.

Player Watch: Babar Azam to Debut in BBL

Pakistan superstar Babar Azam will make his BBL debut this season for the Sydney Sixers, having signed before the 2025–26 Draft. One of the world’s top T20 batters, Babar is expected to bring a global fan following to the Sixers' campaign.

How to Buy BBL Tickets

Tickets for BBL matches can be purchased online via Ticketek Australia. It’s advisable to book early, especially for rivalry games and weekend fixtures.

List of BBL 15 Venues

Matches will be played across 11 iconic venues:

• Optus Stadium, Perth
• SCG & ENGIE Stadium, Sydney
• MCG & Marvel Stadium, Melbourne
• GMHBA Stadium, Geelong
• Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
• Blundstone Arena, Hobart
• The Gabba, Brisbane
• Manuka Oval, Canberra
• Coffs Harbour International Stadium

The Big Bash League 2025–26 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting seasons in recent years. With 44 matches, thrilling doubleheaders, and the possibility of Test stars joining post-Ashes, fans are in for a T20 feast.

The Big Bash League (BBL) is ready for its 2025/26 campaign, and there's a welcome buzz regarding the number of Pakistani cricketers who are scheduled to feature in the competition. With the overseas draft being conducted on June 19, Pakistani cricketers were sought after like never before, a clear indication of their emerging reputation and influence in T20 leagues globally.

A total of seven Pakistan cricketers have been signed by different franchises, marking a notable BBL milestone and paving the way for more subcontinent participation in one of cricket's most thrilling leagues.

Pakistan Players in BBL 2025/26: Teams & Impact

Babar Azam – Sydney Sixers

Arguably one of the most discussed signings before the draft, Babar Azam was introduced as a marquee pre-signing for the Sixers. With his elegance, timing, and unparalleled consistency, Babar comes with a plethora of T20 experience through more than 9,500 runs at more than 44 average. Having never played in the BBL earlier, the Sydney fans will now be able to see one of the greatest batters of the current era opening the innings.

Mohammad Rizwan – Melbourne Renegades

The Renegades were wise in choosing Mohammad Rizwan with their first draft pick. A tried and tested performer, Rizwan has amassed over 8,400 T20 runs at an average of 43, astounding figures for a wicketkeeper-batter. It will be his first BBL experience, but with his experience in the PSL, BPL, and England's Vitality Blast, Rizwan would be expected to make an instant impact. His temperament and anchoring capabilities could prove to be just the thing the Renegades have lacked over recent lacklustre seasons.

Shaheen Shah Afridi – Brisbane Heat

The No.1 pick of the draft, Shaheen Afridi’s selection by Brisbane Heat turned heads and for good reason. The tall left-arm pacer is coming off a sensational PSL 2025 campaign where he was the leading wicket-taker with 19 wickets at an average of 16.42. With bounce-friendly conditions at the Gabba and a formidable pace unit already in place, Shaheen’s inclusion might give Brisbane the scariest fast-bowling attack in the competition.

Haris Rauf – Melbourne Stars

One of the most familiar international faces of the BBL, Haris Rauf, was retained by the Stars. Popular for his express pace and energy-packed celebrations, Rauf has gained a loyal following in Melbourne. Having taken 200+ T20 scalps to his name, the Pakistani speedster will once more spearhead the Stars' bowling unit, particularly in critical death-over situations.

Shadab Khan – Sydney Thunder

Thunder's Shadab Khan selection may prove to be a game-changer. Not only is he a brilliant leg-spinner with almost 280 T20 wickets, but also a harmful batter who can play at the top five. With his all-around skill and experience in leagues across the globe, including the BBL earlier, he is an essential tool, especially with Thunder having several home games at spin-friendly ENGIE Stadium in Western Sydney.

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Hassan Ali – Adelaide Strikers

Hassan Ali comes in to support a Strikers team that endured a poor last season. The temperamental right-arm seamer can spark his team with energy and experience, particularly with the skill of bowling under pressure. With 190+ T20 wickets, Hassan can be the defensive choice Adelaide can use at the batting-friendly Adelaide Oval.

Hassan Khan – Melbourne Renegades

A surprise but welcome choice, Hassan Khan, was brought in by the Renegades. The left-arm spinner provides control in the middle overs, with a career economy rate of 7.80. He is also a useful lower-order batsman with a strike rate of 138.93, giving depth and balance to the team.

T20 Career Snapshot of Pakistan Players

A Big Moment for Pakistan & BBL

This is arguably the most Pakistani involvement we’ve seen in a single BBL season, and it's a significant step forward. The combination of established names like Babar, Rizwan, and Shaheen, alongside exciting prospects like Hassan Khan, adds a global flavour to the league.

The 2025/26 season, beginning in December, holds the promise of enthralling matches and subcontinental pizzazz like never before. As the Aussie summer gets hotter, count on these Pakistani heroes to form the focal point of the drama, fireworks, and match-winning cricket moments in the land down under.

A video posted on social media by the Sydney Sixers has started speculations about Babar Azam. As per speculations, there are high chances to see the Pakistani international join the second-best team of Big Bash League 2024 (BBL).

Last year, the Sydney Sixers ended their campaign as the runner-up of the tournament after being outclassed by the Brisbane Heat in the final match. To make this year's BBL more interesting, there is a new rule that will benefit the clubs.

Before the player drafts, every team has an opportunity to sign a player directly. Recently, senior Pakistani players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi have received No Objection Certificates from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to take part in the Big Bash League in 2025.

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There were already high speculations about Babar Azam that he might be all set to join a Big Bash League franchise. Now, the recent video published by the Sixers doubled the expectations. According to some claims and reports, the Australian franchise can make an important announcement tomorrow, June 13. 

Babar had a decent run in PSL 2025

Babar Azam had a decent run in Pakistan Super League 2025 (2025). He was the captain of Peshawar Zalmi. For them, the star batter had played a total of 10 matches and, with an average of 36.00, scored 288 runs, including a highest score of 94. But for his nation, Babar last played his international T20 match back in December 2024 against South Africa. 

If all the speculations prove right and he gets a chance to play in BBL 2025, that can be very crucial for him to revamp his career in limited overs formats. In recent times, the graph of Babar Azam's form has been in a declining phase. 

Watch the official video here

👀 pic.twitter.com/DSI7nUDMsc

— Sydney Sixers (@SixersBBL) June 12, 2025

Four of Pakistan's top cricket players, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Haris Rauf, and Shadab Khan, have officially entered the overseas draft for the June 19 Big Bash League (BBL) Season 15. Due to a gap in Pakistan's international schedule between November and February, these players are available for the entire season and finals, making them highly sought-after additions to BBL teams.

Brisbane Heat hold the No. 1 pick in this year’s draft, followed by Adelaide Strikers, who are reportedly keen on adding a quality fast bowler to their ranks. Shaheen Afridi, one of the world’s leading T20 pacers, is expected to draw major interest, although competition for all four Pakistani stars is expected to be fierce.

They join a competitive list of international players which includes England’s Sam Curran and Alex Hales, New Zealand’s Lockie Ferguson and Tim Southee, Sri Lanka’s Kusal Perera, and West Indies pace sensation Shamar Joseph. All ten players in the first draft release are eligible for the finals, with most available for a majority of the league matches.

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WBBL Draft Welcomes Fatima Sana as Big Bash Leagues See Record Overseas Interest

In the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) draft, Pakistan women’s team captain Fatima Sana is also in the running, alongside other international stars such as India’s Jemimah Rodrigues and Shikha Pandey, England’s Heather Knight, Sophie Ecclestone, and Danni Wyatt-Hodge, South Africa’s Shabnim Ismail and Chloe Tryon, and West Indies’ Deandra Dottin.

BBL General Manager Alistair Dobson welcomed the flood of nominations, noting that over 600 overseas players have registered for the BBL and WBBL drafts combined. He emphasized the league’s global appeal, saying, “The presence of global icons like Shaheen Afridi, Rizwan, and Ecclestone speaks volumes about the Big Bash’s growing stature in world cricket.”

The drafts for both BBL and WBBL will be broadcast live on June 19 across 7mate, 7Plus, Foxtel, and Kayo, with four rounds of selections and multiple salary bands to shape the upcoming season’s rosters.