(Web Desk) – Babar Azam, the star batsman from Pakistan, will miss the crucial Challenger final for the Sydney Sixers in ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) after being called back by the Pakistan Cricket Board ahead of their upcoming series against Australia.
As a result, he will be unavailable for the remainder of the Sixers' finals run, should they advance by defeating Hobart at the SCG, setting up a potential rematch with the Scorchers in Sunday's BBL Final in Perth.
Pakistan has not yet revealed their squad for the T20 World Cup next month, but Babar will focus on the three T20 internationals against Australia in Lahore starting next Friday, which will serve as preparation for the global tournament.
In a statement released earlier, Babar expressed his gratitude to the Sixers' fans, coaches, and teammates for their support during his time with the club.
"I have very (much) enjoyed my time," he said. "Unfortunately, I will now have to leave the team, to go to the national duty.
"I have a lot of things I have to take back home – a lot of fun, a lot of positive things, so I have enjoyed it a lot.
"Especially, thank you to the Sydney Sixers fans; there is always support there, lot of support, lot of encourage(ment), a lot of fun, so I have very enjoyed that vibe at Sydney Cricket Ground, so thank you so much."