On June 19, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s bowling gem, made headlines in world cricket by becoming the No. 1 pick overall in the 2025–26 Big Bash League (BBL) draft for the Brisbane Heat. Shaheen became the first Pakistani player to be selected top of the jitters and highlights the rising value of Pakistani players in the world’s T20 leagues.
The Pakistani Players Are Coming
Shaheen will arrive to BBL 15 with the biggest contingent of seven Pakistani players, more than any other edition of the BL. Memorable players include:
Haris Rauf: Retained player by Melbourne Stars, and bringing his tall fast-bowling body.
Babar Azam: Was pre-signed by Sydney Sixers and adds batting strength to the playing squad.
Mohammad Rizwan: Selected fourth in Round 1 by Melbourne Renegades, is his first trip to the BBL.
Shadab Khan: Sydney Thunder selected in Round 2 in gold category, fourth BBL team for the leg-spinner.
Hasan Ali: First BBL contract signed with Adelaide Strikers, and adds his depth of experience.
Hassan Khan: Young all-rounder selected by Melbourne Renegades in Round 2.
Afridi’s Brisbane Heat Breakthrough
Brisbane Heat’s faith in Shaheen is based on his impressive record in Australia— including eight wickets in three ODIs last year—and his willingness to bowl in fast, bouncy conditions such as those at the Gabba. The Heat’s fast bowling contingent now looks very strong.
Shaheen shared his excitement in a message:
“Hello everyone, I am excited to join Brisbane Heat for my first Big Bash season… Looking forward to meeting all the Heat fans this summer.”
A Star-Studded Draft
Overall, the draft reflected a mix of marquee picks and familiar faces. Besides Afridi and Pakistani players, international stars like Luke Wood, Sam Curran, and Chris Jordan secured early picks. Cricket Australia flagged this draft as the earliest in BBL history, leading clubs to secure top talent ahead of other T20 leagues.
Significance of the Pakistani Cohort
With seven players selected, Pakistan’s influence across BBL 15 is unmatched. This is more than personal triumph—it showcases Pakistan’s growth in the global cricketing talent pool.In addition, seasoned players such as Rauf, Shadab, and Babar potentially lend not just leadership but also experience to high-profile franchises.
This wave also provides players from Pakistan continued visibility in solid conditions and competition, which builds their experience for things like the T20 World Cup.
Looking Ahead to Summer
As winter turns to summer in Australia, fans can expect thrilling performances:
- Brisbane Heat gains an edge with Afridi’s left-arm pace.
- Melbourne Stars retain Rauf’s speed and aggression as a key asset.
- Melbourne Renegades hope Rizwan and Hassan Khan boost their batting depth.
Expect fresh rivalries, pace duels, and standout batting—all under the spotlight of Pakistan’s growing BBL presence.
Final Word
This document represents a turning point for Pakistani cricket. With world-class players in all areas of the BBL, Pakistanis aren’t just participants—they’re elevating the tournament. The selections ranging from Shaheen’s headline selection and Rizwan’s debut selection further point to Pakistan’s recognition in T20 cricket. The Australian summers are sure to bring new excitement, and fans from Karachi to Brisbane will be listening closely.
