Is Babar Azam Excited to Team Up with Steve Smith in BBL?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Babar Azam is excited to play with Steve Smith.
- The BBL season is highly anticipated by fans.
- Strong support from the Pakistani community in Sydney and Perth.
- Opportunity for fans to see top-tier cricket.
- Special fan zone, Babristan, created for Babar's supporters.
New Delhi, Dec 11 (NationPress) Pakistan’s batting sensation Babar Azam has expressed his enthusiasm not just to entertain fans but also to enhance his skills alongside Australian cricket legend Steve Smith as the excitement mounts for the opening weekend of the Big Bash League.
The Pakistani community in Sydney and Perth is buzzing with energy, quickly purchasing tickets, and Babar has emerged as one of the standout attractions of this year's tournament. The Sydney Sixers will kick off their season on Sunday against the five-time champions, the Perth Scorchers, at Optus Stadium.
“I am incredibly thrilled to be part of the Sydney Sixers,” Babar shared with Telecom Asia Sport. “Playing in Australia is a significant opportunity for growth, and being able to play alongside Steve Smith, who is an exceptional player, makes it even better.”
He is among seven Pakistani players participating in this season of the league. His long-time T20I opening partner, Mohammad Rizwan, will represent the Melbourne Renegades, while Shaheen Shah Afridi will play for the Brisbane Heat.
Haris Rauf reunites with the Melbourne Stars, Shadab Khan plays for Sydney Thunder, Hasan Ali is with the Adelaide Strikers, and Hasaan Khan also joins the Renegades.
Babar noted the overwhelming support from local fans. “I have already sensed the excitement in the Pakistani community in Perth, and I expect even more fans in Sydney. It's a pleasure to entertain them,” he said.
For many fans, this is a rare chance to watch the prolific batsman live. Mohammad Imran, a 20-year resident of Perth, mentioned that he and his friends were quick to secure their tickets. “We booked our seats early to see our favorite player in action,” he said.
In Sydney, the excitement has led local cricket clubs to create a special fan zone, dubbed “Babristan,” outside the Sydney Cricket Ground.
“Babar is our pride,” stated Sohail Sheikh, a cricket organizer in Sydney. “There is immense enthusiasm among the Pakistani fans regarding Babar's arrival in Sydney to compete in the Big Bash League.”