Sydney Sixers have rolled out a grand welcome for Pakistan’s batting superstar Babar Azam by announcing a special fan zone called “Babaristan” ahead of the upcoming season of Big Bash League (BBL).

 

The franchise shared the announcement across its social media accounts with the caption, “Introducing Babaristan, A Fan Zone Like No Other,” creating a wave of excitement among cricket fans in both Australia and Pakistan.

 

“We’re celebrating cricket culture like never before with Babaristan, a brand-new Sixers fan zone dedicated to welcoming one of the world’s greatest cricketers, Babar Azam,” the franchise said in its official statement.

 

The Sixers have invited fans to join the celebration when they face the Adelaide Strikers in their opening match on December 17, which will also mark Babar’s long-awaited BBL debut.

 

The 15th edition of the Big Bash League will feature 44 matches from December 14, 2025, to January 25, 2026. The opening match will see the Perth Scorchers take on the Sydney Sixers in a high-voltage clash at Perth Stadium.

 

Babar’s inclusion has already boosted fan excitement, with the Sixers’ supporters preparing to turn parts of the stadium into “Babaristan,” a tribute to Pakistan’s deep cricket passion.

 

Several other Pakistani players will also appear in the upcoming BBL season. Shaheen Afridi will play for Brisbane Heat as the first overseas and platinum pick, while Mohammad Rizwan will represent the Melbourne Renegades. Haris Rauf will continue with the Melbourne Stars, Shadab Khan will join the Sydney Thunder, Hasan Ali will play for the Adelaide Strikers, and all-rounder Hassan Khan will return to the Renegades.