Questions continue to surround Babar Azam’s sudden exit from the Sydney Sixers, with fans and analysts debating whether it was voluntary or performance-driven.
The Pakistan star struggled throughout the Big Bash League season. His difficulties on Australian pitches raised concerns about his adaptability and confidence in high-tempo T20 cricket.
Babar’s departure came just before a crucial match, which added to the speculation. While the exit appeared cordial on the surface, the timing prompted questions about internal pressure linked to form.
A message from Babar before he heads back to Pakistan to join his national teammates in camp 🩷 pic.twitter.com/0vO0Nuokzw
— Sydney Sixers (@SixersBBL) January 22, 2026This BBL season proved challenging for Babar from the start. Critics questioned his slow strike rate and lack of match-winning innings. The pressure intensified after a controversial one-run mix-up with teammate Steve Smith, who declined the second run. From that point, Babar struggled to regain momentum.
Former Australia captain Mark Waugh later added fuel to the debate by publicly calling for Babar to be dropped from the playing XI.
The numbers underline the concern. David Warner scored 433 runs in just eight matches this season. Babar managed 202 runs across 11 games. Warner struck 38 fours, while Babar hit 19.
Thank you, Babar 👑
Babar Azam has been recalled to join Pakistan’s national camp ahead of upcoming international fixtures.
He will be unavailable for the remainder of the BBL|15 Finals Series.
More info at https://t.co/XFOTpJiF9I 📲 pic.twitter.com/EOaLKZlLG0
— Sydney Sixers (@SixersBBL) January 22, 2026Power hitting further exposed the gap. Finn Allen led the six-hitting charts with 37 maximums. Babar hit only three, placing him well below 50 other batters.
Strike rate remains the biggest concern. While most BBL batters operated between 150 and 200, Babar recorded a strike rate of 103.06. In seven of his 11 innings, he failed to reach double figures. On five occasions, he scored two runs or fewer.
Although Babar and the Sixers parted ways with polite gestures, the circumstances remain difficult to ignore. Releasing a struggling batter ahead of a key fixture often signals a tactical decision.
Whether labelled as a release or a graceful exit, the outcome remains the same. Babar’s BBL campaign ended early, and questions about his T20 approach now dominate the conversation.
