The Big Bash League delivered another headline moment on Thursday when Marcus Stoinis dismissed Babar Azam and followed it up with a fiery send-off that instantly went viral. In a contest already charged with elite talent and franchise rivalry, the Melbourne Stars captain turned personal redemption into prime-time theatre against the Sydney Sixers.
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— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 8, 2026
Stoinis Strikes Back After First-Innings Setback
Stoinis entered the match with a point to prove. Earlier, he had chipped a simple catch to Babar at cover and walked back for 33, a dismissal that swung early momentum toward the Sixers. When the Stars needed breakthroughs in the second innings, Stoinis took responsibility with the ball and delivered under pressure.
Bowling full and straight, he trapped Babar LBW for 14. The Pakistan great missed his flick, the pad took the impact, and the umpire’s finger went up. The appeal was emphatic. The celebration that followed was even louder.
A Send-Off That Sparked Debate
As the decision was confirmed, Stoinis let his emotions flow. The animated send-off, complete with verbal fireworks, became the talking point across platforms. Babar exchanged a brief word with non-striker Josh Philippe and chose not to review, accepting the decision and moving on.
The clip raced through social media feeds, reigniting the age-old debate around on-field aggression versus competitive intensity in T20 cricket.
Star Power, High Stakes, Global Eyes
The Big Bash League has leaned into marquee signings, and Babar Azam’s arrival is one of its biggest. A former Pakistan captain and an ICC award winner, Babar brings unmatched global appeal. Any confrontation involving him is bound to draw attention, especially against an Australian leader like Stoinis.
Stars Falter With the Bat
Melbourne Stars struggled to build partnerships and were bundled out for 128. Ben Dwarshuis led the Sixers’ bowling with a four-wicket haul, exploiting movement and pressure. Stoinis and Blake Macdonald top-scored with 33 each, but the total never looked enough.
Calm Finish From the Sixers
Chasing a modest target, Sydney Sixers wobbled briefly at 89 for 4 before Jordan Silk and Lachlan Shaw steadied the innings. Their unbroken stand carried the Sixers home by six wickets, underlining the side’s depth and composure.
Babar Azam’s Mixed BBL Run So Far
Babar’s BBL campaign has been a study in extremes. Low scores early raised questions, then came a fluent 58 against Sydney Thunder that showcased his class. Consistency remains the challenge, particularly in maintaining tempo in high-pressure chases. Moments like the Stoinis dismissal only add scrutiny to every innings he plays.
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