Lahore, June 19, 2025 – Seven Pakistani cricketers have secured contracts in the highly competitive Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 Draft, held today in Melbourne, showcasing the growing global demand for Pakistan’s T20 talent. The draft, organized by Cricket Australia, featured over 600 overseas players, with Pakistan’s stars making a significant impact.
Leading the charge, Shaheen Shah Afridi was picked as the No. 1 overall selection by Brisbane Heat in the Platinum category, highlighting his status as one of the world’s premier fast bowlers. Babar Azam, pre-signed by Sydney Sixers, also secured a Platinum contract, marking his BBL debut alongside Australian icon Steve Smith. Haris Rauf, retained by Melbourne Stars for his fifth season, and Mohammad Rizwan, selected by Melbourne Renegades, complete the Platinum picks from Pakistan. In the Gold category, Shadab Khan joined Sydney Thunder, while Hasan Ali and young all-rounder Hassan Khan were drafted by Adelaide Strikers and Melbourne Renegades, respectively.
Despite 74 Pakistani male cricketers registering, including notable names like Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Haris, and Abrar Ahmed, only seven secured contracts, reflecting the intense competition. In the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) draft, 11 Pakistani women, including Fatima Sana, competed for spots, signaling Pakistan’s expanding presence in Australia’s premier T20 leagues.
Brisbane Heat’s selection of Shaheen, paired with pacers like Xavier Bartlett and Spencer Johnson, promises a formidable attack. Rizwan and Hassan Khan’s addition to Renegades adds dynamism, while Shadab’s all-round skills bolster Thunder. “I’m thrilled to join Sydney Sixers and play in one of the world’s best T20 leagues,” Babar said, echoing the excitement shared by his compatriots.
The BBL’s early draft, moved to June to secure top talent, ensures players like Shaheen, Rizwan, and Rauf, available for the entire season, will be key attractions. The season, running from December 2025 to February 2026, is set to captivate fans with high-octane cricket.
The Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 Draft saw seven Pakistani cricketers secure contracts across various franchises, highlighting their growing influence in global T20 cricket. Below is the complete list of Pakistani players selected:
- Babar Azam (Sydney Sixers, Platinum Category, Pre-signed)
- Role: Top-order batter
- Notable: Second-highest run-scorer in T20I history, set for BBL debut.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi (Brisbane Heat, Platinum Category)
- Role: Left-arm fast bowler
- Notable: No. 1 draft pick, 310 T20 wickets at an average of 20.99.
- Haris Rauf (Melbourne Stars, Platinum Category, Retained)
- Role: Right-arm fast bowler
- Notable: Fifth consecutive season with Stars, known for express pace.
- Mohammad Rizwan (Melbourne Renegades, Platinum Category)
- Role: Wicketkeeper-batter
- Notable: Dynamic batter and agile keeper, first BBL stint.
- Shadab Khan (Sydney Thunder, Gold Category)
- Role: All-rounder (leg-spin, batting)
- Notable: Versatile player, adds spin and lower-order firepower.
- Hasan Ali (Adelaide Strikers, Silver Category)
- Role: Right-arm fast bowler
- Notable: Experienced pacer, strengthens Strikers’ attack.
- Hassan Khan (Melbourne Renegades, Silver Category)
- Role: All-rounder (spin, batting)
- Notable: Young talent, Pakistan-born USA U-19 player.
Additional Notes:
- A total of 74 Pakistani male cricketers, including Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Haris, and Abrar Ahmed, registered for the draft, but only seven were selected.
- Eleven Pakistani women, including Fatima Sana, competed in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) draft.
- The BBL season runs from December 2025 to February 2026, with players like Shaheen, Rizwan, and Rauf available for the entire tournament, including finals.
Sources: Cricket Australia, Wisden, GeoSuper
