Babar Azam ends BBL drought with scintillating fifty in SYS vs THU clash

Babar Azam in action [Source: @BBL/X]

Veteran Pakistan batter Babar Azam ended his rough patch in the ongoing Big Bash League season, amassing a glorious fifty in Sydney Sixers' third group-stage clash against the Thunder. Opening the batting for the Sixers, Babar struck five glorious boundaries and two sixes during his 42-ball stay, providing his side with a solid start. 

Babar Azam finally lives up to the hype in BBL

The Australian media projected Babar Azam as their most high-profile overseas signing for the Big Bash League 2025. The burden of expectations took a toll on Babar's performance, as he got out cheaply, managing only eleven runs in the first two games. 

So, the experienced campaigner was under immense pressure to deliver, with critics questioning his place in the Sixers' side. However, he finally found his mojo in the competition, ending his run-scoring drought with a superb half-century. 

After being put into bat first by the Thunder, Sydney Sixers had a positive start to their innings, courtesy of the opening partnership between Babar Azam and Daniel Hughes. Although the latter failed to convert his start into a significant score, Babar frustrated the home team with his gorgeous stroke play. 

He went on to smash five boundaries and two maximums en route to a 42-ball 58 before Reece Topley got his prized scalp in the match. Despite losing his opening partner early, Babar didn't lose the momentum slip, forming a game-changing stand with the in-form Josh Philippe. 

Babar Azam's fifty and Philippe onslaught power Sixers to 198

While Babar Azam starred with the bat for the Sixers, Philippe hammered six boundaries and four sixes for his 57-ball 96. Riding on their stunning knocks, Sydney Sixers posted a daunting total of 198 runs for five wickets at the end of 20 overs. 

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