LAHORE: Pakistan’s veteran all-rounder Shadab Khan on Friday said the increased participation of his compatriots has boosted the profile of Australia’s Big Bash League (PBL).

The upcoming 15th edition of BBL, scheduled to be held from December 14 to January 25, will feature a total of six Pakistan international cricketers – Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Rizwan, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali and Shatab.

Owners with Pakistani cricketers have expressed excitement about the arrival of foreign stars, with some even creating special fan zones named after the players at their home stadiums.

Meanwhile, Shadab, who will represent Sydney Thunder in the upcoming edition, welcomed the arrival of prominent Pakistani names, saying their combined presence would give “additional recognition” to the league.

He also noted that although many Pakistani cricketers have featured in the league over the years, they have never had such a large number in a single season.

“I am happy to have prominent Pakistani names playing in the BBL this time. The league is getting recognition because of them,” Shadab said during a virtual media briefing from Sydney.

“Pakistani cricketers have played in Australia before but never in such numbers and never at the same time,” he added.

He further expressed excitement at the prospect of playing against his countrymen for the first time overseas, while highlighting the support they have enjoyed playing in Australia, citing the country’s campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022.

“Back home, we have played against each other, but this is the first time we are playing abroad. We are all looking forward to it. It is a different feeling playing against friends,” Shadab said.

“Our fans are also excited; they are waiting for the BBL to start.

“We played the T20 World Cup here in 2022 and got great support. With big Pakistani names active in the PBL, we will get a lot of support again.”

Shadab Khan has termed the upcoming BBL as “very important” for him as it will mark his return to professional cricket after a five-month layoff due to a shoulder injury that prevented him from returning to Pakistan for the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 in September.

He further dismissed the notion that he is injury-prone, stressing that resilience is part of the game.

“PBL is very important for me. I will be back in action after five months. It’s a great opportunity for me and I want to make the most of it,” shared Shadab.

“Injuries are part of the game – it’s not like I’m the only one getting injured.”

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