Mark Waugh Suggests Sydney Sixers Should Consider Dropping Babar Azam Ahead of Knockout Game

The discussion has gained traction following inconsistent batting performances from Babar and a strong campaign from fellow opener Steve Smith, triggering strong opinions from cricketing pundits — including former Australian batting great Mark Waugh.

📉 Waugh’s Honest Assessment of Babar’s BBL Form

Mark Waugh, known for his calm but incisive cricket commentary, weighed in on the Sydney Sixers’ batting struggles ahead of the do‑or‑die match that will determine their path to the BBL final.

Waugh noted that the Sixers have become heavily dependent on Steve Smith’s performances, especially after Sam Curran’s absence. With several players in inconsistent form, he suggested that a stronger batting lineup might be needed for the team to stay competitive.

In his analysis, Waugh stated that while Babar Azam is undoubtedly a world‑class batter, his current performance levels in the league have not justified a guaranteed place in the top order if the Sixers want to maximize their title chances. He urged the team to consider alternatives and possibly reshuffle the opening partnership to bring in players who are in better rhythm in the tournament.

“Unfortunately, I’m going to have to drop Babar Azam,” Waugh said, highlighting his belief that the team needs a more aggressive or in‑form batter at the top in order to contend for the championship.

📊 What Waugh Suggested Instead

Waugh suggested several alternative options for the Sixers’ opening slot if they decide to move away from Babar at the top of the order:

Moises Henriques — a senior campaigner with experience handling early pressure

Daniel Hughes — a domestic player known for strong starts

Jordan Silk — another experienced opener with big‑game experience

The idea is to inject more explosive intent early in the innings, especially in crucial knockout pressure games where runs in the first six overs can shape the entire chase.

📈 Babar Azam’s BBL Numbers

Part of Waugh’s concern stems from Babar’s overall BBL season statistics. Through 11 matches, Babar has scored 202 runs at an average of 22.44 with a strike rate near 103, including just two half‑centuries and a top score of 58.

For a batter of Babar’s international stature, these numbers are seen by some commentators as below expectations in a T20 league environment, where quick scoring at the top can set the tone for the entire innings.

🧠 Why This Debate Has Resonated

This conversation goes beyond personal performance — it reflects a broader tactical dilemma faced by teams in high‑stakes T20 cricket:

🔹 Role vs. Conditions

Babar is known for his textbook technique and measured approach, but T20 often rewards explosive intent and power hitting early in the innings.

🔹 Team Balance

Sixers management must balance experience with form. While Babar’s credentials are undeniable, a lack of consistent impact could be costly in knockout cricket.

🔹 Pressure of Do‑or‑Die Matches

In games where one loss ends the title dream, teams often prefer players with current momentum over reputation alone.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Team Environment and Aftermath

Despite the public debate, there is no official announcement that Babar will be dropped. The Sixers team management and captain have previously spoken about unity and mutual respect within the squad, and internal decisions are likely to be made based on conditions, matchups, and strategy rather than media commentary alone.

It’s also important to note that Babar has had impactful innings earlier in the campaign, and his presence at the crease often lends stability when the team needs it. Whether this will translate into selection for the next match remains uncertain.

🏁 Final Thoughts: Tough Decisions in T20 Cricket

Mark Waugh’s comments have sparked a wider debate about selection priorities in high‑pressure T20 competition. At its core, the discussion highlights an important aspect of modern cricket — form often outweighs reputation, especially in knockout scenarios.

Whether the Sydney Sixers choose to stand by a world‑class batter like Babar Azam or pivot to explosive alternatives will depend on the team’s overall strategy for the Challenger match. For fans, analysts, and teammates alike, this is one of the most compelling stories leading into the final stages of the Big Bash League.