The batting star of Pakistan, Babar Azam, has been officially recruited into the Sydney Sixers as a direct signing for BBL 2025-26 starting from December 14 to January 25. This was confirmed by the Sixers as they announced that Babar has been given a peculiar jersey number, which is his first appearance in the Big Bash League. The announcement was made through a video where Babar was seen unveiling his new kit. Sixers Create "Babaristan" Fan Zone Introducing BabaristanA fan zone like no other, celebrating cricket culture and the arrival of Babar Azam 🇵🇰First game Dec 17 vs the Strikers — don’t miss it.🎟️ Limited spots: https://t.co/kr3ZypBzGQ pic.twitter.com/WAK6isvv9e — Sydney Sixers (@SixersBBL) October 23, 2025 To celebrate his maiden season, the Sixers launched a special fan zone named “Babaristan” in October. It was created to honor the 31-year-old and reach out to his huge global fanbase. Babar is regarded as one of the finest modern-day batters; his coming is bound to attract massive attention for the league. The Sixers believe that Babar's popularity will bring more viewers and fans to the BBL. Also Read | Watch: Babar Azam Copies Kohli’s Style After Finally Scoring Century Post 83 Innings Why Babar Received Jersey Number ‘056’ The Sixers had also signed senior Australian pacer Mitchell Starc, who has been leading Australia's pace attack since his debut in 2010, earlier in October. Both Starc and Babar usually wear the jersey number 56 in international cricket as well as in franchise-based leagues. The Sixers have handed Babar a special number, "056", to avoid a clash, while Starc will wear his usual No. 56. The franchise itself confirmed the update across social media platforms by sharing pictures of Babar in the new jersey. Babar to Make BBL Debut on December 14 Welcome to Sydney, @babarazam258 pic.twitter.com/kDiEIRjAXv — Sydney Sixers (@SixersBBL) December 9, 2025 The much-awaited BBL debut of Babar is expected to take place in the curtain raiser on December 14, when the Sixers face the Perth Scorchers at the latter's home ground. Everyone will want to see him open the innings and bring his solid T20 record onto the Big Bash stage. Other Pakistani Players in BBL 15 This season will also witness the presence of a number of other Pakistani stars: Shaheen Afridi was selected by Brisbane Heat as the first overseas platinum pick. Mohammad Rizwan signs up with Melbourne Renegades. Melbourne Stars have retained Haris Rauf. Hassan Khan will return to the Renegades. Pakistan's T20I vice-captain, Shadab Khan has linked up with Sydney Thunder. Hasan Ali has been picked by Adelaide Strikers. With several Pakistani players in the fray, BBL-15 promises to be one of the most thrilling seasons for their fans around the world.