The stage is set for an explosive start to BBL 15, with Pakistan’s cricket stars Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi taking center stage in one of the most anticipated clashes of the season. The Big Bash League will run from December 14, 2025, to January 25, 2026, featuring 44 matches packed with international talent and thrilling matchups.
Babar Debuts, Shaheen Returns
BBL 15 kicks off with a marquee fixture between the Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers at Perth Stadium. Making headlines, Babar Azam will debut for the Sixers, while fans eagerly await his high-octane battle with Shaheen Afridi when the Sixers later face the Brisbane Heat. Shaheen, selected as the No.1 pick in this year’s draft, will spearhead Brisbane’s bowling attack.
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Tight Schedule and Star-Studded Lineups
This year’s schedule is designed for fan engagement. Every team will play at least one home game within the first 10 days, ensuring early action in front of home crowds.
BBL General Manager Alistair Dobson hailed the upcoming season as “the one we’ve been waiting for,” crediting the clean scheduling window and availability of international stars, especially after the Ashes series concludes in early January.
Ashes Ends, Test Stars Join BBL
The conclusion of the Ashes allows key Australian players like Steve Smith, Josh Inglis, and Travis Head to rejoin their BBL teams for the latter stages. The finals format remains unchanged, beginning with the Qualifier on January 20 and culminating in the final on January 25.
Other Highlights of the Season
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Sydney Thunder vs Hobart Hurricanes rematch on December 16
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Boxing Day double-header: Stars vs Sixers at SCG, Scorchers vs Hurricanes at Optus
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Melbourne Renegades to open with two games in Geelong due to pitch recovery at Marvel Stadium
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Melbourne Stars to host Sydney Thunder in Canberra on December 28
Franchises can also recruit two additional marquee players from Cricket Australia’s contracted list, boosting squad depth and star power.
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