Steve Smith returns to BBL after Ashes glory; Babar Azam’s tough run continues

Fresh off Australia’s commanding 4-1 Ashes triumph, Steven Smith is set to swap red-ball intensity for white-ball urgency as he rejoins the Sydney Sixers for the closing stretch of the Big Bash League. Cricket Australia has released the majority of Test players for Big Bash League (BBL) duty, giving the tournament a timely injection of star power as the race for finals tightens.

Smith will be available for the Sixers’ final three league matches, starting against the Hobart Hurricanes, as the side looks to secure a playoff spot in a fiercely contested table where only one team remains out of contention. His return is a major boost, particularly given his strong BBL record, including a standout unbeaten century last season.

Mitchell Starc is also poised for a rare BBL comeback after more than a decade, expected to feature later in the week. With Starc retired from T20 internationals and Smith not part of Australia’s upcoming T20I squad, both players could remain available through the finals should the Sixers qualify.

Not all Test regulars will take part. Travis Head has opted to rest ahead of the T20 World Cup, while Cameron Green and Scott Boland have also been sidelined following heavy Ashes workloads. Others, including Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne and Alex Carey, are set to filter back into the competition, adding further intrigue to an already congested BBL season.

With Australia’s T20 tour of Pakistan looming and player departures expected to be staggered, the coming fortnight promises high stakes, quick turnarounds and marquee matchups as clubs chase silverware.

BABAR AZAM’S DIFFICULTIES PERSIST DESPITE SIXERS WIN

While Sydney Sixers continue to gather momentum, Pakistan star Babar Azam’s difficult BBL campaign showed little sign of easing during their latest victory over Melbourne Stars at the MCG.

Chasing a modest target of 129, the Sixers suffered an early setback before Babar walked in to steady the innings. However, his stay was brief. He struggled to lift the tempo and was eventually pinned lbw by Marcus Stoinis, departing for 14 from 17 balls. A brief exchange followed the dismissal, but Babar chose composure, heading back after a short discussion over a potential review.

The innings was another frustrating chapter in an uneven season for the prolific batter. Across seven matches, Babar has managed 145 runs at an average just over 24, with a strike rate that has drawn scrutiny in a format demanding constant acceleration. Despite registering two half-centuries, low scores have become a recurring theme.

The Sixers, though, cruised home with time to spare, sealing a six-wicket win with nearly three overs remaining. Jewel Davis starred with the ball to earn Player of the Match honours, ensuring Babar’s early exit did not impact the result.

As the playoffs approach, attention will remain firmly on Babar Azam. Few players carry higher expectations, and the coming matches may prove decisive in determining whether he can rediscover rhythm and authority in the fast-paced demands of the Big Bash League (BBL).