Babar Azam Becomes Highest-Paid Pakistani Cricketer in Big Bash League 2025/26 After Record-Breaking Draft
In a landmark moment for Pakistani cricket, Babar Azam has become the highest-paid Pakistani cricketer in Big Bash League (BBL) history, following a record-breaking 2025/26 draft. The star batter was picked in the Platinum category, drawing massive attention from multiple franchises and ultimately signing a high-value contract that cements his status as one of the most sought-after T20 players globally.
🏏 Record-Breaking BBL 2025/26 Draft
Babar was snapped up by the Melbourne Renegades after an intense bidding war.
He was signed in the Platinum tier, which commands the highest salary bracket in the BBL.
Sources indicate Babar’s deal is worth approximately AUD 420,000–450,000, surpassing previous records held by Pakistani cricketers like Haris Rauf and Shadab Khan.
This contract places Babar among the top-paid international players in the 2025/26 Big Bash League.
🇵🇰 What This Means for Pakistani Cricket
Babar Azam’s selection and valuation underscore a significant shift in how Pakistani talent is perceived in global leagues. Despite Pakistan’s players being largely absent from the IPL, their rising prominence in leagues like the BBL, CPL, and The Hundred shows growing global demand.
Babar’s inclusion is also expected to boost BBL viewership across South Asia, making this move commercially valuable for the league.
🔥 Babar’s T20 Track Record
T20I Runs: Over 3,800 runs
T20 Average: Above 40
Strike Rate: Close to 130
Previous Franchise Experience: PSL (Peshawar Zalmi, Karachi Kings), CPL, and now BBL
Known for his classical stroke play and consistency, Babar adds both star power and reliability at the top of the order — a rare combination in modern T20 cricket.
🏆 Franchise Reactions
The Melbourne Renegades’ head coach said:
“Babar brings elegance and experience. His ability to anchor innings while accelerating at will makes him a dream T20 recruit.”
The signing is part of a larger international recruitment strategy by BBL franchises aiming to balance entertainment with strategic depth.
✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Which BBL team signed Babar Azam for 2025/26?
Babar Azam was signed by the Melbourne Renegades during the Platinum draft round.
Q2: How much will Babar earn in the Big Bash League?
While official figures aren't disclosed, estimates suggest a salary between AUD 420,000 and AUD 450,000, making him the highest-paid Pakistani player in BBL history.
Q3: Has Babar played in the BBL before?
No, the 2025/26 season will mark Babar’s debut in the Big Bash League.
Q4: Why are Pakistani players not part of IPL but allowed in BBL?
Due to political and diplomatic tensions, Pakistani players have not participated in the IPL since 2008. However, they are eligible for other leagues like BBL, CPL, and The Hundred.
Q5: Will Babar's inclusion impact BBL viewership?
Yes, with a massive fan base in Pakistan and globally, Babar’s presence is expected to significantly boost South Asian engagement with the Big Bash League.
Published on: June 24, 2025
Uploaded by: Pankaj
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