former australian cricketer mark waugh requested sydney sixers To take a hard, no-nonsense look at their playing XI ahead of BBL|15 The challenger suggested that big names performing poorly could not be moved into high-pressure knockout matches. According to Waugh, the Sixers’ batting unit needs a significant overhaul if they want to keep their title hopes alive, even if it means leaving out a global star like him. Babar Azam.
Mark Waugh highlights Sydney Sixers’ over-dependence on Steve Smith
Speaking in a video shared by the Big Bash League on X, Waugh explained that the Sixers’ batting has been overly dependent on Smith, with little contribution from the rest of the top order. He stressed that knockout games require multiple match-winners rather than one pillar handling the innings. He also cited Sam CurranConsidering that the English all-rounder had saved the team on many occasions, but now he is not available, there has been a clear lack of form and balance.
“I think he needs some tough love and tweaks to his batting because, right now, it’s almost entirely dependent on Steve Smith. Sam Curran got him out of a tight spot in another game, but he’s gone, and at the moment, a lot of players are not in form. So, I’m looking at bringing in either Daniel Hughes or Jordan Silk.” Waugh said.
Waugh explains why Sixers should drop Babar Azam
Waugh’s comments are backed by the statistics of Babar’s BBL|15 campaign. The Pakistan batsman scored 202 runs in 11 innings at an average of 22.44 and a strike rate of over 103. In a tournament where quick scoring at the top is often decisive, Waugh believes these figures fall short of the numbers required for an overseas opener in tough matches.
“Unfortunately, I have to leave out Babar Azam. I know he is world-class, but at the top of the order, he has not performed consistently enough. When you are thinking of winning this tournament, you need your openers, and so far, he has not done that,” Waugh added.
Looking ahead to the challenger, Waugh suggested several options to freshen up the Sixers’ batting combination. He suggested promotion to captain moises henriques In-house experts such as openers or drafting Daniel Hughes Or jordan silkBoth have proven their worth in Australian conditions.
“For the new opener, you can go with Moises Henriques or bring in either Hughes or Silk. That’s the way I am thinking.” Waugh further explained.
Babar departs for international duty
In any case, Babar will not be joining the Challenger after being recalled to the Pakistan national camp. The Sixers confirmed his departure via social media, stating that he had left the tournament due to upcoming international commitments with Pakistan. Now the competition will be against Sydney Sixers Hobart Hurricane In Challenger, the winner gets a place in the finals Perth Scorchers. As the pressure mounts, Waugh’s message is clear: prestige alone cannot guarantee selection when the championship is at stake.