Babar Azam’s difficult Big Bash League spell continued during Sydney Sixers’ qualifier at Optus Stadium, where the Pakistan batter was dismissed for a duck in a dismissal that provoked debate after a TV-umpire call. The incident is the latest chapter in a testing BBL campaign for Babar, whose strike-rate and temperament have been under scrutiny this season.
What happened in Perth
In this first over of the chase at Optus Stadium, Babar looked to get off the mark against Cooper Connolly but missed the ball, and was given out stumped in a decision that involved the TV umpire. Replays and fan clips of the moment circulated quickly, and some viewers questioned the interpretation that led to the wicket, as some angles suggested that the foot was grounded behind the crease. The on-field drama added to the tension around the Sixers’ top order on a high-pressure night.
A season riddled with frustration
This outing follows a string of frustrating moments for Babar in BBL 15. Earlier in the campaign he was visibly upset after being denied a single by teammate Steve Smith ahead of the Power Surge phase, an episode that became viral for all the wong reasons. The run-denial incident and subsequent dismissal earned headlines and saw Babar vent his frustration on a few occasions.
The numbers: Babar’s BBL 2025–26 form so far
Across the BBL season to date, Babar’s scoring has been steady in aggregate but slow for the format. Compiled stats show around 11 innings and roughly 202 runs with a strike-rate hovering near 104, figures that several analysts say are below the expectation for an opening T20 batter in the BBL. Critics have pointed to a low scoring tempo (dot-ball percentage and strike-rate concerns) as the main issue rather than a lack of runs alone.
Why fans and pundits are worried
Supporters and commentators have focused on two threads: (1) Babar’s strike-rate in a power-hitting competition that prizes quick scoring, and (2) visible signs of frustration on the field after tactical clashes (like the Smith single incident) or dismissals. In T20 leagues, quick scoring at the top of the order is often the difference between a competitive and match-winning total, which is why these numbers and moments have magnified scrutiny on the Pakistan star.
What this means for the Sixers & Babar
Sydney Sixers eventually lost the Qualifier & now their focus is on the Challenger match for a place in final. For Babar, it’s about rediscovering the timing and tempo that made him one of the most reliable white-ball batters globally. If Babar can tweak intent and strike-rotation while staying composed in pressure moments, there’s every chance he can flip this rough patch into form going into the knockouts.
