Pakistan cricket stars Babar Azam and Muhammad Rizwan spent New Year's Eve together before turning into opponents in the Big Bash League (BBL) match between Sydney Sixers and Melbourne Renegades on Thursday.

 

In a pre-match video, a presenter caught up with Rizwan before the match at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne. During the conversation, Rizwan revealed he spent the previous night with Babar and called him over for a chat.

 

"I also was with Babar Azam as well last night," Rizwan said before calling out, "Bobzy, come here."

 

When Babar joined them, the presenter asked if they spent New Year's Eve together.

 

"Yeah, last night we were together. Happy New Year. Lovely to see you," Babar said.

 

The presenter then asked if their families celebrated together as well.

 

"No, we were together last night, but his family stayed in a hotel. But we had a lot of discussion last night about the conditions," Babar explained.

 

The presenter pointed out the unusual situation where they celebrated together the night before but now will play against each other, with Rizwan keeping wicket and chattering behind the stumps as Babar bats.

 

"To be honest, yes, I'm not used to that. But today I will be doing my stuff when I'm fielding and when he's batting. So let's see," Babar responded with a smile.

 

Rizwan also spoke about the challenge of facing his teammate and friend.

 

"I always give him respect because he's a very nice guy. But now he's in opposition, so at least we will do all the things that the team requires," Rizwan said.

 

Fans on social media praised the friendship between the two cricketers, with comments like "Good luck both of you," "Bobzyy the king," and "Kaptanaa" flooding the video.

 

The match marked the 18th game of BBL 2025-26 at Docklands Stadium. Sydney Sixers won the toss and chose to field first. Melbourne Renegades posted 164 for 9 in their 20 overs, with Rizwan keeping wickets for the side.

 

Sydney Sixers has chased down this total in 19.1 overs with Babar Azam scoring 58 not out on 46 balls.

 

Both teams entered the match desperately needing a win. The Renegades had won one match and lost two, suffering consecutive defeats to the Hobart Hurricanes. The Sixers had also won just one of their four matches heading into this contest.

 

The Sixers hold a dominant head-to-head record against the Renegades, having won their past nine BBL matches against them.