Former Australia great Adam Gilchrist has weighed in on the inclusion of former Pakistan captain Babar Azam in the Big Bash League (BBL), offering a light-hearted yet telling assessment of the star batter’s approach to the game. Babar is currently representing the Sydney Sixers in the tournament, marking a high-profile addition to the league.
The comments were made during a live commentary of a BBL match, when former Australia opener David Warner posed a question to Gilchrist. Warner asked why he thought Babar Azam had been picked for the Big Bash League, inviting an on-air reaction from the former wicketkeeper-batter.
Responding with trademark wit, Gilchrist said Australians love watching Test cricket and suggested that Babar fits that preference perfectly. He remarked that Babar Azam is the only player who plays all three formats of the game as if they are Test cricket. The comment highlighted Babar’s classical technique, patience, and emphasis on timing rather than power, even in the fast-paced environment of T20 cricket.
Gilchrist’s response drew laughter from fellow commentators Mark Waugh and David Warner, underlining the humorous tone of the exchange. While delivered jokingly, the remark also reflected a broader perception of Babar’s batting style, which is often described as traditional and technically sound, rooted in Test match principles.
Babar’s inclusion in the BBL has generated significant interest among fans and experts alike. As one of Pakistan’s most accomplished modern batters, his presence adds international star power to the tournament and offers Australian audiences a chance to watch a player renowned for elegance and consistency across formats.
The Sydney Sixers’ decision to sign Babar has been seen as both a commercial and cricketing boost for the league. His ability to anchor an innings and play long spells at the crease could provide balance to a competition often dominated by aggressive stroke-play.
Gilchrist’s comments, though humorous, captured the essence of why Babar remains a fascinating figure in global cricket — a player whose Test-match temperament continues to define his game, regardless of the format or stage.
