PCB Approves Babar Azam for BBL 2025–26

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially cleared seven of its top players to participate in Australia’s upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) Season 15, scheduled to run from December 14, 2025, to January 25, 2026. This move comes after the board lifted its earlier restrictions on Pakistani players joining overseas leagues. So let’s have a look at PCB Approves Babar Azam for BBL 2025-26.

Seven Pakistani Stars Receive NOCs

The seven Pakistani cricketers who have been granted No Objection Certificates (NOCs) include:

  • Babar Azam – Sydney Sixers
  • Shaheen Afridi – Brisbane Heat
  • Mohammad Rizwan – Melbourne Renegades
  • Haris Rauf – Melbourne Stars
  • Shadab Khan – Sydney Thunder
  • Hasan Ali – Adelaide Strikers
  • Hassan Khan – Melbourne Renegades

These players had previously received clearance from the PCB to participate in international leagues, and the latest NOCs reaffirm their eligibility for BBL 15.

PCB Lifts Restriction After Policy Review

Earlier this year, the PCB temporarily suspended all NOCs for players joining overseas leagues, citing a need to review its policy and potentially link approvals to player performance. After careful deliberation, the board decided to allow players who already held contracts and had prior approval to compete in BBL Season 15.

Exciting Debuts and Fan Buzz

Among the approvals, Babar Azam’s debut with the Sydney Sixers has generated significant excitement among fans. The franchise has gone the extra mile to celebrate his arrival by creating a special fan zone named “Babaristan”, described as:

“A fan zone like no other, celebrating cricket culture and the arrival of Babar Azam.” – Sydney Sixers, official X handle

Player Assignments Across Franchises

Each Pakistani player will represent a different BBL franchise in Australia:

  • Babar Azam – Sydney Sixers
  • Shaheen Afridi – Brisbane Heat
  • Mohammad Rizwan – Melbourne Renegades
  • Haris Rauf – Melbourne Stars
  • Shadab Khan – Sydney Thunder
  • Hasan Ali – Adelaide Strikers
  • Hassan Khan – Melbourne Renegades

Fans are eagerly anticipating these stars lighting up the tournament with their performances.

BBL 15 Overview

BBL Season 15 will feature 44 matches, starting with an exciting opening clash between the Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers at Perth Stadium. With top international stars now cleared to play, the tournament promises a high level of competition and fanfare.

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