Babar Azam replaced: Sydney Sixers' strongest XI for BBL challenger vs Hobart Hurricanes

Sydney Sixers will be without Babar Azam for BBL challenger [Source: @SixersBBL/X]

Veteran Pakistan batter Babar Azam has left the BBL midway in order to link up with the national side for the T20I series against Australia. The right-handed batter was an integral part of the Sixers' squad, as he used to open the batting for them with Steve Smith in the BBL 2025-26. However, as he has left the BBL due to national commitments, the Sydney Sixers are expected to make at least one change to their XI that took the field in the qualifier against the Perth Scorchers. 

Sydney Sixers enjoyed stellar success in the group stage of the BBL 2025-26, finishing as the second-best side with six wins in ten matches. However, despite having a star-studded squad, the Sixers fell flat against the Scorchers' formidable outfit, incurring a heavy 48-run defeat in the qualifier. 

So, the Challenger against Hobart Hurricanes is a must-win game for the Sixers, as they will be knocked out of the competition if they lose the high-octane face-off. As the Sydney-based team gears up for the BBL Challenger, let's analyse and find out what could be their strongest playing XI in Babar Azam's absence. 

Top Order: Steve Smith, Daniel Hughes, Josh Philippe

(Daniel Hughes' BBL record)

Left-handed batter Daniel Hughes has been a consistent performer in the Big Bash League. The opener has amassed 2327 runs at a decent average of 28.37 and a strike rate of 123.84. As Babar Azam is set to miss the remainder of the season, Hughes should be back as Steve Smith's opening partner. 

He is vastly experienced and complements Smith, being a left-hander. The Australian duo can set the foundation for the Sixers with a solid start and play a significant role for their team in the BBL Challenger. 

Middle Order: Moises Henriques, Lachlan Shaw, Jack Edwards, Joel Davies

Captain Moises Henriques will spearhead the Sydney Sixers' middle order with the dynamic trio of Lachlan Shaw, Jack Edwards, and Joel Davies. Edwards has been one of the most impressive performers for the Sixers, amassing 115 runs and scalping 17 wickets in the tournament. 

Lachlan Shaw has struck at a rate of 157.14, while Joel Davies has grabbed the limelight with 360-degree strokeplay. The southpaw has ensured firepower in the Sydney Sixers' lineup, scoring 91 runs at a strike rate of 151.67. He has also bagged 12 wickets with his left-arm spin, providing his side with a potent bowling weapon. 

Bowlers: Ben Dwarshuis, Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc, Ben Manenti

Ben Manenti has blown hot and cold in the BBL, managing only three wickets across six innings. However, he has registered a superb economy of 5.58, suggesting his effectiveness in controlling the flow of runs in the middle overs. So, Manenti's ability to bowl with great control could help him retain his place in the Sixers' playing XI for the BBL Challenger. 

The decorated trio of Mitchell Starc, Ben Dwarshuis, and Sean Abbott are the frontrunners to lead the Sydney Sixers' pace attack. Dwarshuis has 13 wickets to his name this BBL, while Starc and Abbott have seven wickets each under their belt. Their form and experience make Starc, Abbott, and Dwarshuis three key players to watch out for in the Challenger. 

Sydney Sixers' strongest XI for BBL 2025-26 challenger vs Hobart Hurricanes

Steve Smith, Daniel Hughes, Josh Philippe (WK), Moises Henriques, Lachlan Shaw, Jack Edwards, Joel Davies, Ben Dwarshuis, Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc, Ben Manenti