Former Australian batter Mark Waugh has floated the idea of dropping Pakistan star Babar Azam from the Sydney Sixers’ playing XI ahead of their crucial Big Bash League (BBL) 15 Challenger match.

The Sixers are set to face the winner of Wednesday’s knockout encounter between Hobart Hurricanes and Melbourne Stars, with a place in the final on the line. Ahead of the high-stakes clash, Waugh voiced concerns over Sydney’s heavy reliance on Steve Smith and the lack of consistent contributions from the rest of the batting line-up.

Calling for what he described as “tough love,” Waugh urged the Sixers to reshuffle their top order.

“They need to rejig their batting because, at the moment, they are almost totally reliant on Steve Smith,” Waugh said.
“Sam Curran got them out of jail in another game, but he’s gone now. At the moment, there aren’t a lot of players in form.”

The former Australia international went on to question Babar Azam’s impact in the tournament, stressing that stronger performances from the top order are essential if the Sixers are to mount a serious title challenge.

“So I’m bringing in either Daniel Hughes or Jordan Silk. Unfortunately, I’m going to have to drop Babar Azam,” Waugh stated.
“I know he’s world-class, but when you’re thinking about winning this tournament, so far he just hasn’t delivered.”

Waugh also outlined his vision for a revamped opening combination, suggesting a more aggressive or in-form approach at the top of the order.

“I’m thinking about a new opener. You can either have Moises Henriques open, or bring in Daniel Hughes or Jordan Silk one of those two. That’s the way I’m thinking,” he added.

Babar Azam has endured a below-par BBL 15 campaign by his high standards. In 11 matches this season, the right-hander has scored 202 runs at an average of 22.44 and a strike rate of 103.06, registering only two half-centuries.