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Babar Azam BBL Controversy: Pakistan's star batsman Babar Azam's intention to play in Australia's Big Bash League (BBL) proved to be a complete failure. Babar, who had joined the Sydney Sixers to prepare for the T20 World Cup, returned to Pakistan midway through the tournament. However, the statistics and controversies he left behind are casting doubt on his reputation.
Babar Azam Leaves BBL Early for National Duty
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Babar Azam left the Sydney Sixers on Thursday and departed for Pakistan. He made this decision just 24 hours before a crucial match like the Challenger, making it difficult for the franchise to balance the team. Initially, it was expected that he would play the entire season as he was not selected for the Sri Lanka series, but he was recalled to prepare for upcoming international events.
Babar Azam's Performance in BBL: Record Low Strike Rate
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Statistically, this season was nothing short of a nightmare for Babar Azam. He scored just 202 runs in 11 matches and averaged 22.44. The most surprising thing was his strike rate of 103.06.
Also Read: IND vs NZ 2nd T20 Pitch Report, Raipur Cricket Stadium stats, records
Slowest Strike Rate in BBL History (Minimum 200+ Runs)
| Strike Rate | Player | Team | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| 103.06 | Babar Azam | Sydney Sixers | BBL 15 |
| 105.21 | Nathan McSweeney | Brisbane Heat | BBL 13 |
| 106.04 | Jonathan Wells | Adelaide Strikers | BBL 10 |
| 106.25 | Alex Ross | Brisbane Heat | BBL 6 |
| 107.03 | Jake Weatherald | Adelaide Strikers | BBL 11 |
The Australian media has described his performance as a 'burden on the Sixers'. Many experts even believe that his departure could prove to be a boon for the team.
Steve Smith vs Babar Azam: Strike Controversy and Dressing Room Tension
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Babar's journey off the field wasn't smooth either. During one match, legendary Australian player Steve Smith refused to give Babar the strike due to his slow batting. Babar was so enraged by this incident that after being dismissed, he slammed his bat against the boundary rope.
Sixers captain Moises Henriques revealed that Babar was isolated from the team for hours after the incident and it took him two days to calm down.
Babar Azam's Farewell Message to Sydney Sixers Fans
Even though the statistics weren't in his favor, Babar expressed his gratitude to the franchise upon leaving. He said:
"Thank you so much to the Sydney Sixers. I had a great time here and I take back a lot of positive memories. I thoroughly enjoyed the fans' support."
Also Read: Adam Milne Ruled Out of T20 World Cup, Who Will Replace Him?
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