Babar Azam starts 2026 with match-winning knock in BBL, Rizwan struggles again

Babar Azam made an impressive start to 2026, leading Sydney Sixers to a six-wicket win over Melbourne Renegades in the 18th match of the Big Bash League at Docklands Stadium, Melbourne. His match-winning knock of 58 not out from 46 balls guided the Sixers to 168/4, successfully chasing down the target of 165 with five balls to spare.

Babar Azam brought up his half-century in just 41 balls, showcasing his trademark poise and class under pressure. The standout moment of his innings was when he sent Andrew Tye to the boundary, securing the win for the Sixers.

Babar Azam, after his earlier knock against Sydney Thunder, backed up his form with another fifty in the Big Bash League, reaching 129 runs from five games, averaging 32.25 and striking at 117.27

Babar Azam brings up his second BBL half-century! 🙌 #BBL15 pic.twitter.com/YZjAHXvYUR

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 1, 2026

On the other hand, Mohammad Rizwan had another underwhelming outing, scoring only six runs from 10 balls before being dismissed by Ben Dwarshuis. Rizwan’s Big Bash League campaign has been challenging, with just 58 runs in four matches at an average of 14.50 and a strike rate of 100. Both Rizwan and Babar Azam will be absent from Pakistan’s upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka due to their commitments in the BBL.

The Renegades posted a solid total of 164/9, with Josh Brown top-scoring with 43 runs off 19 balls. Sean Abbott was the star for the Sixers, claiming three wickets and taking two catches, which helped him secure the Player of the Match award.

Babar Azam’s performance not only ignited the Sixers’ New Year celebrations but also showcased the contrasting fortunes of the two Pakistani stars. While Babar thrives in the BBL, Rizwan will be aiming to turn things around in the upcoming games. With Babar leading the charge, the Sixers look well-positioned for a successful campaign in this year’s Big Bash League.

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