Starc, Smith to join Babar Azam in business end of Sydney Sixers’ BBL campaign

Mitchell Starc and Steve Smith will don magenta for Sydney Sixers as the pair gears up to shift formats after the historic Ashes win. Both players are expected to join the side as early as their next game against Hobart Hurricanes on Sunday at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). 

Starc and Smith join Babar in Sydney Sixers

It was confirmed by Starc himself after the fifth Test concluded. When asked if he sees himself playing the 2027 Ashes in England, he said. 

“I’m certainly not looking two years down the road just yet. I’ll pull on the magenta with the man [Smith] next to me. We’ll see if we can help the Sixers get to another final. Other than the BBL, I haven’t got too many plans other than a bit of golf.”

Starc and Smith will join Pakistan batter Babar Azam, who was the side’s pre-draft signing, in the Sixers. Besides the two, other players from the Australian red-ball side, which defeated England 4-1, are likely to join the remaining Big Bash League (BBL) as well.

"Over the past decade I've stayed close to the club and, all things going to plan, am excited to get back on the field this summer

"The Sixers are close to my heart, and I have great memories of our BBL|01 and Champions League success. My goal is to help bring another trophy home to our passionate fans,” Starc said. 

Other Australian players in the BBL

Scott Boland, Travis Head, and Cameron Green will not be part of the BBL this season. On the other hand, Usman Khawaja (Brisbane Heat), Marnus Labuschagne (Brisbane Heat), Alex Carey (Adelaide Strikers), and Josh Inglis (Perth Scorchers) will be available to play from January 10, with a few expected to join shortly after. 

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