Billings Eager to Compete Against Shaheen Afridi in BBL 15

Star English wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Billings has voiced his anticipation for facing Shaheen Afridi, who is slated to play for Brisbane Heat in the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) Season 15.

In remarks made before the tournament, Billings lauded Afridi and emphasized his excitement for the challenge of playing against the Pakistani pace bowler.

“I’m eagerly awaiting the opportunity to face Shaheen Afridi [in BBL]. He’s a top-tier performer, among the world’s best bowlers, and I look forward to engaging in some good contests against him. He’s like a brother to me,” Billings stated.

Previously, Billings appeared on TheSurge podcast, where he provided a preview of the BBL Draft and expressed his admiration for Babar Azam, affectionately calling the prolific Pakistani batsman “King.”

“He is King Babar Azam, as he’s known. He’s consistently been a world-class performer for a considerable time. Any competition that includes a player of Babar Azam’s caliber is beneficial, not just for the Sixers, but for the entire tournament,” Billings noted.

“I’ve played against him extensively, and I’d much prefer having him on my team rather than competing against him. I’m definitely looking forward to those Sydney derbies again,” he added.

Notably, Shaheen Afridi was the top selection in the BBL Season 15 Draft, which occurred on June 19, with Brisbane Heat successfully acquiring his services.

Six of the eight franchises expressed interest in securing Pakistani players.

The left-arm pacer was the initial platinum pick, while England’s Luke Wood was chosen second, and wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan was selected third.

This season will be Afridi’s first appearance in the BBL, although he has previously participated in prominent leagues such as the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), International League T20 (ILT20), and The Hundred.

Former Pakistan T20I captain Mohammad Rizwan has been signed by the Melbourne Renegades, while right-arm pacer Haris Rauf will remain with the Melbourne Stars.

Former Pakistan U19 all-rounder Hassan Khan is also returning to the Melbourne Renegades.

Leg-spinner Shadab Khan, who is also Pakistan’s current T20I vice-captain, has been signed by Sydney Thunder, while star batsman Babar Azam was pre-signed by the Sydney Sixers prior to the official draft and is preparing for his BBL debut.

Furthermore, right-arm pacer Hasan Ali has been acquired by the Adelaide Strikers.