-
-
Pakistan’s cricket stars shine at the Big Bash League (BBL) 15 overseas draft, with seven players selected across different franchises, marking a strong presence in Australia’s top T20 league.
Among more than 600 registered players around the world, Pakistani talent stood out, particularly fast bowlers and top-order batters. BBL teams were eager to secure players available for the full Big Bash season.
| Player Name | Team | Round | Category |
| Shaheen Shah Afridi | Brisbane Heat | Round 1 | Platinum |
| Haris Rauf | Melbourne Stars | Round 1 | Right to Match (retention pick) |
| Mohammad Rizwan | Melbourne Renegades | Round 1 | Platinum |
| Shadab Khan | Sydney Thunder | Round 2 | Gold |
| Babar Azam | Sydney Sixers | Round 2 | Platinum (pre-draft signing) |
| Hasan Ali | Adelaide Strikers | Round 3 | Gold |
| Hassan Khan | Melbourne Renegades | Round 2 | – |
Brisbane Heat made a bold move with the first overall pick, selecting left-arm pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi, who is expected to bring firepower to their bowling attack.
Haris Rauf, known for his pace and death-over accuracy, was retained by Melbourne Stars.
Pakistan’s all-format captain Babar Azam was pre-drafted by the Sydney Sixers, and wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan was picked by the Melbourne Renegades in round 1.
Both right-handed batters are expected to play key roles at the top of the order in their respective teams.
Outside of England, Pakistan had the highest number of overseas players selected.
However, notable absentees included Saim Ayub, Hassan Nawaz, Imad Wasim, and Salman Ali Agha, who could still join teams later if opportunities arise during the season.
BBL franchises have the option to add or replace players mid-season due to injuries or national duties, leaving the door open for more Pakistanis to make an appearance.
