On Sunday, January 11, Lachlan Shaw, Sydney Sixers wicketkeeper-batsman, in an interview with former Australian wicket-keeper Brad Haddin, praised Babar Azam, calling the Pakistani star “unreal”. He further placed him among the best players in the world.
Brad Haddin has asked Shaw about his experience with Babar Azam in the 2025-26 season of the Big Bash League (BBL 15)
Shaw responded to the question by defining the Pakistani star as “unreal.” He further described him as one of the best batters in the world.
The interview was done after BBL 15 offered one of its most anticipated high-profile moments of the season, which was Steve Smith and Babar Azam opening the Sydney Sixers batting together against Hobart Hurricanes at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).
Ahead of the batting opening, there was significant buzz around the SCG., The fans were eager to see two of the biggest names in the cricketing world share the crease.
The crowd was at near capacity at the SCG, and the pair received a warm welcome. Many young supporters were leaning on the stands, hoping for quick high-fives from Babar and Smith as they walked towards the pitch. The attitude from both the batters was composed; they shared a glove tap before setting in.
However, the fans were unlucky today because the much-anticipated contest was cut short by the weather. After just five overs, the match was halted by rain and then abandoned. The fans were hence denied a longer look at the Babar-Smith partnership.
The Sixers stood at 32 runs in five overs before the match was abandoned; they were showing early intent. Babar scored 9 off 14 balls with one boundary while Smith scored 19 off 16 balls with one six and one four.
As further play was not possible both teams shared one point. Hobart Hurricanes now has 13 points, becoming the first team to qualify for the playoffs.
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