BBL season struggles continue for Babar Azam following dismissal and heated exchange with Marcus Stoinis

BBL season struggles continue for Babar Azam following dismissal and heated exchange with Marcus Stoinis

By Nawaz Gohar ; Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam continues to endure a challenging run in the Big Bash League (BBL), failing to make a significant impact during the recent encounter between the Sydney Sixers and the Melbourne Stars.

The match, held at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), saw Babar’s struggles intensified not only by his low scoring output but also by a provocative “send-off” from Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis.

Chasing a modest target of 130 runs, the Sydney Sixers faced early pressure. Babar Azam and Josh Philippe attempted to stabilize the innings with a 28-run partnership. However, the breakthrough came in the seventh over when Marcus Stoinis, bowling over the wicket, delivered a sharp, good-length ball that nipped back in.

Babar was struck on the pads, and the umpire upheld the LBW appeal. While Babar stood his ground briefly to consult his partner regarding a DRS review, Stoinis approached him with a visible verbal outburst. Despite the aggressive gesture from the Australian, Babar maintained his composure and chose not to react. As Babar eventually accepted the decision and headed back to the pavilion, Stoinis was seen smiling and mocking the batter with parting words.

Babar Azam’s stay at the crease ended with just 14 runs off 17 deliveries. This performance marks his fifth failure in seven innings during the current BBL campaign, a concerning statistic for a player signed as a marquee overseas talent.

While Babar has managed two half-centuries this season, his lack of consistency and a relatively low strike rate of 108.21 have raised concerns among fans and pundits. As a primary overseas signing for the Sydney Sixers, expectations were high for the former world number one ODI batter to dominate the league.

However, the pace and bounce of Australian tracks, combined with targeted bowling from rivals like Stoinis, have kept him from finding his signature rhythm. The Sydney Sixers management will be hoping their star attraction finds his form quickly as the tournament approaches its business end.