Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi, headlines a powerful lineup of national cricketers who have confirmed their availability for the Big Bash League (BBL) Draft, scheduled for June 19.
Afridi, along with teammates Mohammad Rizwan, Haris Rauf, and Shadab Khan, is among over 600 international players who have registered for both the men’s and women’s drafts ahead of the 2025 BBL season. With Pakistan not scheduled for any international series between November and February, these players are expected to be free for the entire tournament — a factor that has already piqued interest across BBL franchises.
Brisbane Heat, holding the first pick in the men’s draft, is widely believed to be eyeing Shaheen as a top prospect. At 25, the left-arm pacer has already made a name for himself with electrifying new-ball spells and strong performances in T20 leagues such as the PSL, The Hundred, and the Lanka Premier League. His ability to strike early and deliver under pressure in the death overs makes him one of the draft’s most sought-after players.
Read more: Mohammad Rizwan Likely to Lose Pakistan’s ODI Captaincy
Joining him in the draft is wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan. A consistent figure at the top of Pakistan’s T20 lineup, Rizwan is valued for his calm demeanor, reliable run-scoring ability, and sharp skills behind the stumps.
Fast bowler Haris Rauf is also back in the BBL spotlight, having first gained fame during his debut stint with the Melbourne Stars in the 2019-20 season. His explosive pace and familiarity with Australian conditions make him a strong candidate for teams looking to reinforce their bowling attack. Now a regular in Pakistan’s national setup, Rauf brings a blend of raw speed and international experience.
Another key name is Shadab Khan, the dynamic all-rounder known for his all-around ability and sharp fielding. Shadab, who has played in the BBL before, brings both batting and bowling prowess, making him an ideal option for teams seeking versatility in their squads.
Fatima Sana enters Women’s Draft
In a notable development on the women’s side, Pakistan women’s team captain Fatima Sana has also entered her name in the Women’s BBL Draft. The 22-year-old fast-bowling all-rounder, celebrated for her lively pace and handy batting skills, is eyeing her first appearance in the Australian league. Her nomination signals a growing acceptance and interest in Pakistan’s female talent on the global stage.
This year, both drafts — men’s and women’s — have been moved earlier to June, allowing franchises more preparation time. The WBBL draft will occur first, followed by the men’s selection, all on the same day.
Fans and team management can track player updates, retention statuses, and selections in real-time through the BBL Draft Hub on the official app. Additional signings and announcements are expected in the run-up to draft day.
Draft Order for BBL and WBBL
For the 15th edition of the BBL, the men’s draft order is as follows:
- Brisbane Heat
- Adelaide Strikers
- Melbourne Renegades
- Perth Scorchers
- Hobart Hurricanes
- Sydney Sixers
- Melbourne Stars
- Sydney Thunder
The WBBL 11 draft order is:
- Sydney Sixers
- Adelaide Strikers
- Melbourne Stars
- Perth Scorchers
- Hobart Hurricanes
- Sydney Thunder
- Melbourne Renegades
- Brisbane Heat
Franchises will utilize a mix of draft selections and retention rules to build their final squads.
Eyeing the 2026 T20 World Cup
For Pakistan’s players, participating in the BBL offers more than just a chance to shine in a top-tier T20 league. With the 2026 T20 World Cup set for February, spending an entire season in Australia provides vital preparation and exposure to elite competition.
The full-season availability of Pakistan’s top stars — a rarity in past editions due to conflicting schedules — could significantly boost the league’s competitiveness and global appeal. With just days to go until the draft, excitement is building among fans and franchises alike. If top names like Afridi, Rizwan, Rauf, and Shadab are snapped up early, BBL 15 may witness a strong Pakistani influence that extends beyond the boundary lines.
