Former Australian cricketer Mark Waugh called Sydney Sixers taking a hard, unsentimental look at the game they played before the XI BBL|15 Challenger suggests that underperforming big names cannot be taken to high-pressure knockout matches. According to Waugh, the Sixers’ batting unit needs a major overhaul to keep their title hopes alive, even if it means letting go of a global star like him. Babar Azam.
Mark Waugh highlights the Sydney Sixers’ over-reliance on Steve Smith
Speaking in a video shared by the Big Bash League at X, Waugh pointed out that the Sixers’ batting was overly reliant on Smith, with little consistent contribution from the rest of the top order. He emphasized that knockout games require match winners rather than a pillar holding the batting together. He also referred Sam CurranThe Englishman pointed out that the all-rounder has saved the side time and time again but is no longer available, leaving a gaping hole in form and balance.
“I think their batting needs a bit of tough love and a rejig because at the moment it’s almost entirely down to Steve Smith. Sam Curran got them out of trouble in another game but he’s gone and there aren’t many players in form at the moment. So I’m looking at bringing in Silk or Jor from Daniel.” Waugh said.
Ask why the Sixers should drop Babar Azam
Waugh’s comments are backed up by Babar’s stats from his BBL|15 campaign. The Pakistani batsman managed 202 runs from 11 overs at an average of 22.44 at a strike rate of just over 103 overs. In a tournament where quick scoring is often crucial at the top level, Waugh believes those numbers fall short of what is required from an away opener in crunch matches.
“Unfortunately, I’ll have to give up Babar Azam. I know he’s world-class, but at the top of the order he hasn’t been consistent enough. If you’re going to win this tournament, you’ve got to fire the top players and so far he hasn’t.” Waugh added.
Looking ahead to the Challenger, Waugh floated several options to freshen up the Sixers’ batting combination. He offered to promote the captain Moises Henriques such as openings or layouts in local specialists Daniel Hughes or Jordan Silkboth have proven their worth in Australian conditions.
“For a new player, you can go with Moises Henriques or bring in Hughes or Silk. I think so.” Waugh explained further.
Babar leaves for international duty
In any case, Babar will not participate in the Challenger after being recalled to the Pakistan national camp. The six confirmed his departure via social media, saying he was pulling out of the tournament due to upcoming international commitments with Pakistan. Now the Sydney Sixers have come face to face The Hobart Hurricanes In the Challenger, the winner earns a spot in the finals Perth Scorchers. As the pressure mounts, Waugh’s message is clear: when a championship is on the line, reputation alone cannot guarantee selection.
Also WATCH: Babar Azam’s heartwarming reaction after Steve Smith brought down Nathan McSweeney’s catch in BBL|15
