The Big Bash League 2025 draft saw seven Pakistani players make big splashes, earning lucrative contracts and huge attention. Leading the pack was Shaheen Afridi, who was the first overall pick and secured by Brisbane Heat. With Shaheen available for the full season, multiple teams competed hard to sign him. Alongside teammates like Spencer Johnson, Michael Neser, and Xavier Bartlett, Afridi is set to be a key bowler for the Heat.

Haris Rauf Retained by Melbourne Stars

Melbourne Stars used their retention pick to keep Haris Rauf after fierce competition from Adelaide Strikers, who wanted him with the second pick. Rauf’s pace and experience made him an invaluable asset for the Stars.

Mohammad Rizwan Joins Melbourne Renegades

Mohammad Rizwan was selected fourth overall by Melbourne Renegades, who already had dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman Tim Seifert signed. This move shows the Renegades’ strong faith in Rizwan’s batting prowess and versatility.

Other Big Names Picked in the Draft

After missing out on Rauf, Adelaide Strikers opted for England’s left-arm fast bowler Luke Wood with their platinum pick at number three. Sydney Sixers grabbed Sam Curran at pick seven, and Sydney Thunder retained Lockie Ferguson at pick eight. Perth Scorchers and Hobart Hurricanes secured Finn Allen and Chris Jordan respectively as their pre-signed platinum players.

The Renegades also picked uncapped USA all-rounder Hasan Khan at pick eleven, who impressed last season and with San Francisco Unicorns in the MLC. Pakistan’s all-rounder Shadab Khan joined Sydney Thunder at pick twelve—his fourth BBL team after stints with Brisbane Heat, Sydney Sixers, and Hobart Hurricanes. Bangladesh’s Rishad Hussain was selected by Hobart Hurricanes at pick thirteen after withdrawing last season due to NOC issues. To strengthen spin bowling, Hurricanes also picked England’s leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed in the later rounds.