WEB DESK: Former Australia captain Aaron Finch has commended the inclusion of Pakistani cricketers in the upcoming 15th edition of the Big Bash League (BBL), describing them as “global superstars” who play a vital role in enhancing the game.
Six Pakistani players have been signed for this year’s tournament: Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Rizwan, and Hasan Ali. Finch, who captained Australia to their first ICC Men’s T20 World Cup victory in 2021, expressed his excitement about their participation and praised their talent and influence in cricket.
He acknowledged their stature in the sport during a podcast, emphasizing their significance. He stated that they are not just stars in Pakistan but also recognized as global icons, adding that such international involvement is pivotal for the league’s success due to the skill and experience these players bring.
Among the six players, four will be making their BBL debuts, including Babar Azam, who was directly picked by the Sydney Sixers ahead of the players’ draft. The franchise celebrated his addition with much fanfare, launching a special fan zone named “Babaristan” in October to mark his first appearance in the league.
Finch singled out Babar Azam for special praise, calling him one of the finest players he has played against. Reflecting on their on-field encounters during his time in Pakistan, Finch noted how challenging it was to dismiss the star batter. He acknowledged that while Babar’s recent form may have dipped slightly over the last 18 months, his sheer talent makes him one of the best when in full flow.
