Tamil Nadu veteran Ravichandran Ashwin recently announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) on August 28, bringing an end to his long and successful stint in the tournament.

The experienced off-spinner, however, made it clear that he is not done with cricket altogether. Ashwin expressed his desire to continue playing in different franchise leagues across the world, keeping his passion for the shorter formats alive.

Since his announcement, speculations have been rife linking him with multiple global leagues. Fans and cricket experts are eager to see where the seasoned campaigner, known for his variations and sharp cricketing mind, will showcase his skills next. His wealth of experience makes him a valuable addition to any franchise setup.

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Ravichandran Ashwin can be Part of Big Bash League:

On September 2, Cricbuzz reported that Ravichandran Ashwin is in discussions for a potential role in the 2025-26 Big Bash League, which is set to start on December 14. The report further mentioned that Cricket Australia (CA) CEO Todd Greenberg has already spoken with the former India star, exploring the possibility of his participation in the upcoming tournament.

Cricket Australia (CA) CEO said, “ To get someone with Ashwin's credentials to come over here for the BBL will be great at so many levels. He's a champion cricketer who will bring a lot to the Big Bash and to our cricket summer.”

Big Bash League Teams That Must Consider Signing R Ashwin in 2025-26:

With news of 38-year-old Ravichandran Ashwin’s possible participation in the 2025-26 Big Bash League creating buzz, here’s a look at three franchises that could be interested in acquiring the experienced spinner for the upcoming season, given his proven skills and ability to influence games in T20 cricket.

• Melbourne Renegades

Leading the potential suitors are the Melbourne Renegades, who had a tough 2024-25 season, ending sixth in the standings. Their home venue, Docklands Stadium, favors spin bowling and isn’t typically high-scoring, making Ashwin’s addition a strategic boost for the team in controlling games and strengthening their bowling attack.

The Melbourne Renegades already feature Australia’s top white-ball spinner, Adam Zampa, who claimed 12 wickets in 10 matches last season. Including Ravichandran Ashwin would greatly enhance the Melbourne Renegades’ spin attack, enabling him and Adam Zampa to fully capitalize on the spin-friendly conditions at Docklands Stadium.

Moreover, the Renegades secured Jason Behrendorff, the leading wicket-taker of the 2024-25 season. Combining Behrendorff’s pace with the spin duo of Zampa and Ashwin would give the team a well-rounded attack. This balanced bowling lineup could make the Renegades a formidable side, capable of dominating matches and improving their performance in the upcoming 2025-26 BBL season.

• Melbourne Stars

The Melbourne Stars could be another franchise keen on signing Ravichandran Ashwin for the 2025-26 BBL season. Historically, the team has depended largely on pace bowlers, leaving their spin attack less impactful compared to other sides.

Ahead of the new season, the Stars have already secured Mitchell Swepson from the Brisbane Heat to strengthen their spin options. Bringing in the 38-year-old Ashwin would add experience and variety to their attack. His skillful variations and ability to adapt would suit the long boundaries at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, making him a valuable addition to the Stars’ bowling lineup.

The Melbourne Stars already feature star players such as Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis. Adding Ashwin would not only strengthen their leadership core but also provide crucial guidance and mentorship to emerging talent within the squad, helping the younger players develop while enhancing the team’s overall balance and strategy for the 2025-26 BBL season.

• Adelaide Strikers

The Adelaide Strikers are the last team expected to target Ravichandran Ashwin for the 2025-26 BBL. The team had a disappointing 2024-25 season, finishing at the bottom of the table. Their spin attack struggled to make an impact, with Lloyd Pope taking 15 wickets in 10 matches at an average of 21.13 and an economy of 9.05.

Pope, however, lacked sufficient support from the other bowlers, leaving gaps in the bowling lineup. Ashwin’s expertise and experience could become a crucial asset here. Having played 333 T20 matches and taken 317 wickets, the 38-year-old off-spinner brings the ability to bowl at different stages of the innings. In addition, his batting skills add depth to the lineup, giving the Strikers an extra option down the order.

With pacers like Luke Wood, Hasan Ali, and Jamie Overton in the squad, Ashwin would perfectly complement the pace attack. His inclusion could strengthen the team’s bowling balance and provide the leadership and experience needed to help Adelaide Strikers bounce back in the 2025-26 BBL season.

Young Australian batting talent Sam Konstas has committed himself to the Sydney Thunder for the long term by signing a four-year contract extension that will see him in a Thunder shirt until the 2028–29 Big Bash League.

Konstas, 19 years old, has already been on a rollercoaster ride in international cricket. He averaged just 8.33 runs in three Test matches in the West Indies, but the young opener is set on bouncing back and being more consistent. To re-establish his rhythm and sharpen his focus, he has deleted Instagram from his phone to remove any distractions.

“I’m actually off Instagram now… It’s just not having that distraction. I am trying to give myself the best chance to perform at that level,” Konstas said. "I've had the support of all the senior players in the group, and in particular, Pat Cummins, Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, and Mitchell Starc have been great in terms of support. Steve Smith has been good at sharing batting advice, and the way he shared with me how Pat Cummins reminded everyone about how important it was to balance and rest."

Konstas signs on with Thunder, from record debut to boyhood dream

Despite recent challenges, Konstas' talent and potential remain clear. He made an impact on his BBL debut last season when he slammed a 20-ball half-century, the quickest in Thunder history, which made him the competition's youngest to reach the milestone. Konstas was part of Australia's Under-19 World Cup-winning team and is viewed as a potential building block of the national team.

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Konstas feels sentiment towards his contract as a Thunder supporter by nature. "I remember watching Davey Warner, Michael Hussey, and Andre Russell play for Thunder in the stands, so to now extend for another four years is very exciting to me," he said. "Batting with Davey last season was a massive, massive learning opportunity. Obviously, he’s very strategic, but he gave me clarity and freedom to just play my game. We've got an exciting group again this year, adding Shadab Khan. I feel like this is the year we’re going to dominate."

Trent Copeland, the General Manager of the Thunder, called the extension one of the easiest decisions of his career. "Sam continues to progress amazingly. From breaking records on debut to developing across formats, this deal showcases his growth, and we are excited to continue on this journey with him, as we believe he can be a Thunder player for life".

SA20 organisers are confident about the league’s growing stature and are not worried about competition from Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL). Commissioner Graeme Smith shared that the tournament has already built a solid foundation.

He pointed out that SA20 has quickly gained recognition, both locally and internationally, with strong fan engagement and quality performances from players across the globe. This growth, according to Smith, has given the league a secure position in the cricketing calendar.

With the BBL aiming to become the second-largest T20 competition after the IPL, Smith emphasized that SA20’s vision remains focused on sustainability and long-term impact. He believes the league has already made significant strides to hold its own.

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Graeme Smith on Impact of SA20:

The SA20’s fourth season starts on Boxing Day, with all six teams owned by IPL investors. With a salary cap of R41 million (US$2.31 million), the league stands second only to the IPL in financial strength.

Commissioner Graeme Smith said strong franchise support makes SA20 one of the leading global T20 leagues. With a marquee auction scheduled for September 9, he emphasized the organisers’ commitment to maintaining this status. Smith discussed these details with ESPNcricinfo before player registrations closed for the upcoming SA20 auction.

He said, “ When we started we were built up against the ILT20 and Big Bash and we set ourselves big ambitions upfront. In the southern hemisphere window we want to dominate and we want to be the biggest league outside the IPL. Three years in, we've set the standard. Every decision we make is around making sure that we uphold those standards.”

He added, “ I expect there will be a top number of leagues that will elevate themselves in a calendar cycle and that will be the priority for players, investors and fans. Our ambitions are to remain right at the top of that alongside IPL.”

CA targets second spot with BBL privatisation plans:

Smith’s remarks follow closely after Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg stated on SEN radio that his board would “openly” pursue the position of the world’s second-biggest T20 league. Greenberg mentioned that they are considering the option of privatisation as part of their strategy to elevate the Big Bash League’s status in global cricket.

Todd Greenberg said, “ It's going to be very hard to chase the IPL, given the scale of cricket in India, but unashamedly, we want to run a league that comes second. And to do that we're going to need to make sure that player availability and player salaries are commensurate with everything else that goes on around the world, and there's one thing you need for that, you need money, you need investment. We'd be naive if we weren't asking ourselves these questions and making sure we've got an eye on what's next.”

The BBL’s decision to explore private investment marks it as the last major T20 league to move beyond board-controlled funding. Recently, The Hundred followed a similar path, finalising ownership deals for six of its eight franchises ahead of the upcoming season.

While The Hundred’s developments don’t directly impact SA20 due to their separate schedules, the BBL presents a different challenge. Since the BBL coincides with the SA20, the overlap could lead to competition for recognition and, more importantly, for player availability. This clash of windows may create tough choices for cricketers and potentially spark a rivalry between the leagues.

Smith backs SA20 priority over international commitments:

Graeme Smith stays optimistic about SA20 despite BBL competition. Unlike Australia, whose league runs alongside their international summer and often misses Test stars, South Africa ensures all its contracted and national players prioritize the SA20, even ahead of international fixtures.

An example came last year when South Africa fielded a weakened Test squad against New Zealand to protect the SA20. Though this decision drew criticism, South Africa later won the World Test Championship final. Smith believes this outcome shows that with proper planning, international cricket and franchise leagues can successfully co-exist without diminishing either format.

He said, “ Everyone was worried that we were going to destroy Test cricket but we've seen our national team go on a few years later to win the World Test Championship final. We've all played our role in the ecosystem. We've been part of bringing gravitas back to South African cricket, seeing new fans come back to the game and new energy.”

The SA20 has also drawn international stars, including several English Test players who joined last season during their winter break. Although this year’s Ashes series may limit such participation, Graeme Smith remains optimistic about attracting a strong group of overseas players, ensuring the league continues to feature global talent alongside South Africa’s top domestic and national cricketers.

He further said, “ In the first two seasons we saw a lot of the England white-ball players come through and then with the FTP ebbing and flowing every year that changes. So this year with the Ashes, we see some of those white ball players come back and maybe the Test players won't form part of this season.”

He added, “ The Ashes finishes on the ninth (of January, 2026). I don't know if some of their players will form part of replacement lists but we've seen the likes of a Jos Butler come back into the tournament this year as an example.”

SA20 Season Four Set During Festive Period:

Jos Buttler, previously with Paarl Royals, has been signed by Durban Super Giants for SA20 season four. Franchises could retain or pre-sign up to six players, and of the 36 available slots, only 13 went to South African players, which Graeme Smith expects will make the upcoming auction highly competitive.

Smith said, “ I expected a lot more top South African players to pre-sign and that didn't happen. From our perspective it's set up a very exciting auction with a very big purse.”

The SA20’s fourth season will take place during the festive period, with no home Tests scheduled in South Africa this summer. Matches won’t use the new drop-in pitches planned for the 2027 ODI World Cup, but Graeme Smith hopes the break from cricket will produce livelier surfaces than last year, which showed noticeable wear.

He added, “ The pitches last year didn't play as well as we would have liked and it's something that's being worked on in terms of revamping stadiums and facilities ahead of the World Cup. We're working closely with Cricket South Africa in terms of improving the quality of stadiums, lights and pitches. Everything is a big work in progress behind the scenes.”

The SA20 player auction is scheduled for September 9 in Johannesburg, with the registration window closing earlier on Monday, August 18. Cricketers aiming to feature in the fourth season must complete their registrations before this deadline, allowing franchises to prepare for the upcoming auction and finalise their squads ahead of the festive period tournament.

Cricket is gearing up for a major global shake-up as the Champions League T20 format is set to return – this time with a new identity. Reports suggest the revamped competition will be called the World Club Championship, bringing together the winners of the world’s top T20 franchise leagues in a blockbuster tournament format.

Several sources have indicated that the event will take place in 2026, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) being two of the most invested in the revival. Furthermore, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has also given support to the idea, signalling its desire to take club T20 cricket globally.

Participating Leagues in the Inaugural Edition:

However, there’s a major omission. No team from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will feature in the first edition, reportedly due to Pakistan Cricket Board’s absence from a key meeting held in London. The meeting, hosted under the ICC’s umbrella, was attended by representatives of all the major T20 leagues, including the Emirates League, SA20, CPL, and more. The Lahore Qalandars, the reigning PSL champions, will miss out.

Building a Unified T20 Ecosystem – and Blunting Saudi Ambitions

ECB CEO Richard Gould, in a statement to ESPNcricinfo, confirmed that the tournament is indeed "on the cards" for both men and women, calling it “the next logical step” for the evolution of franchise cricket.

The World Club Championship is also reportedly being fast-tracked to counter the emergence of the Saudi Cricket League, a high-budget T20 initiative backed by a reported USD 400 million investment. Saudi plans to model their league on the tennis Grand Slam format, but opposition from top cricket boards like the BCCI and ECB – who are unlikely to grant NOCs to their players – has already created roadblocks.

ALSO SEE: RCB analyst credits this player over Virat Kohli for their maiden IPL 2025 title victory

With nearly every cricketing nation now boasting a franchise T20 league, a unified global competition makes strategic sense. It not only provides a global stage for top-performing teams but also gives players from emerging leagues – like those in the UAE and USA – a golden opportunity to rub shoulders with the sport’s elite.

A Global Reboot of Franchise Cricket's Biggest Stage

The concept closely mirrors the now-defunct Champions League T20, which ran from 2009 to 2014. That tournament saw top clubs from the IPL, BBL, South Africa’s Ram Slam, and others compete in a high-stakes, intercontinental format. The new World Club Championship aims to revive that legacy – but with a more inclusive, globally aligned structure.

Though the exact format and schedule are still under discussion, the World Club Championship is likely to:

• Feature winners (or top teams) from each major T20 league
  
• Rotate venues globally
  
• Feature both men’s and women’s editions in the long run
  
• Be supported by strong broadcast and commercial deals
  

The stage is now being set for what could become cricket’s ultimate franchise showdown. With most of the cricketing world on board and ICC backing secured, the World Club Championship promises to redefine the global T20 calendar – and spark new rivalries along the way.

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

ALSO SEE: Wisden reveals current World Test XI: Four indians make the cut

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.

In a major development for global T20 cricket, reports indicate that the long-defunct Champions League T20 is on track to make a grand return. The Cricketer has reported that the tournament has plans to relaunch in 2026, under a new name—the World Club Championship. The revamped competition aims to bring together top-performing T20 teams from around the world in a new, exciting format.

The new tournament will have a similar structure to the original tournament, Champions League T20 with champions of premier domestic T20 leagues like the IPL, BBL, PSL, SA20 and The Hundred participating. While specific details such as the number of participating teams are still under discussion, reports suggest that the ECB is likely to propose that winners of The Hundred participate instead of those from the Vitality Blast. The initiative has already gained traction, receiving backing from both the BCCI and ECB, with ICC Chairman Jay Shah reportedly giving the green light.

"That is on the cards. Without a doubt, at some point, there will be a World Club Championship for both men and women. That's the next logical step," said ECB’s Richard Gould, as quoted by ESPNCricinfo. The idea is to create a true global club championship that mirrors the prestige and competition level of football’s UEFA Champions League.

The Rise, Fall, and Revival of CLT20

The Champions League T20 tournament was launched in 2009 and was held annually until 2014. Although it was scheduled for its sixth tournament in 2015, the tournament was cancelled due to poor viewership and lack of a dedicated sponsor. It featured Tier 1 teams from four leagues, with IPL teams the most represented, often with three IPL teams qualifying. Notably, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians were the most successful franchises, each winning the tournament twice.

🚨 Champions League T20 set to be revived as World Club Championship from 2026 with teams from #IPL, 100 & #BBL participating (as per The Cricketer)

Another report says that Jay Shah's ICC has given its backing too (as per Cricxtasy)

Used to pray for such times😭 #CLT20 #GSLT20 pic.twitter.com/P5z5AmorNC

— t20 and nations (@t20andnations) July 1, 2025

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The revival comes at a time when T20 leagues have flourished globally, providing a perfect setting for a truly competitive club championship. With more leagues and higher global interest in franchise cricket, the World Club Championship could finally deliver on the promise of an international platform for domestic T20 champions—potentially becoming cricket’s version of the football Champions League.

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.

ALSO SEE: "Virat Made No.18 His Own"- Ben Stokes reacts to Virat Kohli's Test exit ahead of ENG vs IND Test series

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.

The overseas player draft for the 2025-26 seasons of the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) and Big Bash League (BBL) will be held on Thursday, June 19, ushering in a fresh season of top-class cricket in Australia. The WBBL draft starts at 4 PM AEST and is followed without a gap by the BBL draft. These drafts enable every one of the eight clubs in each of the competitions to choose from a large number of international players to complete their rosters.

How the Draft Operates

The draft is a formal four-round format.

• Round 1: Platinum players only
• Round 2: Platinum and Gold
• Round 3: Gold and Silver (in reverse order)
• Round 4: Silver and Bronze

Every team needs to pick at least two overseas players except for their pre-signed players. Clubs can miss only one round. Every team has already pre-signed one overseas player prior to the draft, and players have to be assigned to a round according to how much they are earning on their contracts. Clubs can also pick a fourth overseas player as a substitute.

Draft Order

Draft order was determined through a weighted lottery based on the standings of the prior season.

• WBBL Round 1 Order: 1. Sydney Sixers, 2. Adelaide Strikers, 3. Melbourne Stars, 4. Perth Scorchers, 5. Hobart Hurricanes, 6. Sydney Thunder, 7. Melbourne Renegades, 8. Brisbane Heat.
• BBL Round 1 Order: 1. Brisbane Heat, 2. Adelaide Strikers, 3. Melbourne Renegades, 4. Perth Scorchers, 5. Hobart Hurricanes, 6. Sydney Sixers, 7. Melbourne Stars, 8. Sydney Thunder.

There was a trade in the BBL draft, with the Thunder and Scorchers exchanging picks in the second and third rounds.

Pre-signed Players (Prior to Draft)

• Adelaide Strikers: Laura Wolvaardt, Jamie Overton
• Brisbane Heat: Nadine de Klerk, Colin Munro
• Hobart Hurricanes: TBC, Chris Jordan
• Melbourne Renegades: Hayley Matthews, Tim Seifert
• Melbourne Stars: Marizanne Kapp, Tom Curran
• Perth Scorchers: Sophie Devine, Finn Allen
• Sydney Sixers: Amelia Kerr, Babar Azam
• Sydney Thunder: Chamari Athapaththu, Sam Billings

See Also: [WATCH] WAS vs LAS: Glenn Maxwell smashes 8th T20 century in MLC 2025

Notable Overseas Nominees

More than 600 overseas players have thrown their names into the pool for the upcoming WBBL and BBL drafts, which promises to be a great mix of talent from around the globe. The BBL has some exciting names included in the nominations, including Pakistani superstars Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Rizwan. England's T20 hitters include Jofra Archer, Liam Livingstone, Sam Curran, and Alex Hales. All of these big names are among the nominations for the BBL, along with New Zealand's Lockie Ferguson, Tim Southee, and Kane Williamson, who has declared himself available for three matches. Bangladesh's Mustafizur Rahman and West Indies speed demon Shamar Joseph round out the marquee BBL names.

For the WBBL, we have some Indian stars with award-winning resumes. Jemimah Rodrigues, Shikha Pandey, and Yastika Bhatia have all made nominations to the process. West Indies' Deandra Dottin and Pakistan's Fatima Sana also add some firepower to the draft. England has featured great players like Sophie Ecclestone, Heather Knight, Danni Wyatt, and Alice Capsey, while South Africa's Shabnim Ismail and Chloe Tryon help improve the quality of nominations.

Player Salaries

WBBL:

• Platinum: $110,000
• Gold: $90,000
• Silver: $65,000
• Bronze: up to $40,000

BBL:

• Platinum: $360,000-$420,000
• Gold: $300,000
• Silver: $200,000
• Bronze: up to $100,000

Retention and Replacement Rules

Each club can have a single retention pick, typically for players who played or signed for the team the season before. Replacement players will need to be selected from the draft pool unless sanctioned under exceptional circumstances.

Season Timeline and Scheduling Conflicts

• WBBL: Late October to early December
• BBL: Mid-December to late January

The BBL would face schedule conflicts with other competing leagues such as ILT20 (Dec 2 - Jan 4) and SA20 (Dec 26 - Jan 26). Yet, Cricket Australia still has hope that international stars could be free for the second part of the season and playoffs.

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Although there were initial worries about the clash of T20 leagues causing overseas players to miss the BBL, Dobson was feeling positive about this season having better outcomes than in earlier years. He highlighted the fact that instead of a mass exodus at the later stages of the BBL, it's possible that some of the players playing in the ILT20 would be available for the back end of the tournament and finals. He added that this coincided with Australia’s Test stars’ availability, as no international matches are scheduled in January after the Ashes series.

"I think so," Dobson told ESPNcricinfo. "We probably pay more attention to our teams and players and who wants to come and play in the Big Bash. And we're hearing from players that they still love coming to the BBL. It's a bucket list for many of them. We're always looking at windows and player availability, but ultimately, I think our job is to make sure our comp is as appealing as it can be."

The 2025 drafts promise high drama and strategic decisions as clubs shape their overseas core. With global superstars up for grabs and new scheduling dynamics in play, this draft season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive yet.

Babar Azam is set to make his Big Bash League (BBL) debut this season. Sydney Sixers has secured the services of the renowned batter from Pakistan. The Australia franchise has announced the precious signing through a video post recently from their official social media platforms.

The sign has raised expectations from the team before the tournament ignited. A part of cricket fans are curious to know about the salary of the star batsman. During his prime days, Babar Azam was counted as one of the most skillful batters in the cricket world. With lots of experience and a huge fan following in Pakistan, the former skipper of the nation can increase the value of the BBL team.

So, the curiosity about Azam's salary in the Sydney Sixers is not unnatural. But, as per some latest reports, his salary slab is not as high as many people thought. Media reports suggested the Sydney Sixers will give him an amount slightly less than $420,000. This amount is approximately Rs 2.35 crore in Indian currency, which is surprisingly low for a player like Babar, who performed at the highest level.

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Babar Azam's salary in BBL can surprise many cricket fans

Actually, if we compare BBL's pay scale and the Indian Premier League's (IPL) pay scale, players often receive way more payment in IPL. Even uncapped players got more value than Babar's estimated value in the BBL. For example, we can take Priyansh Arya. Punjab Kings signed the young, uncapped opener for INR 3.5 crore. 

But the Pakistan international has to prove his worth in his debut season in the Big Bash League, as he is now out of the T20I setup. As a teammate in the Sydney Sixers, he will play with another star of the cricket world, Steve Smith.