The Brisbane Heat will honour Shaheen Shah Afridi during his inaugural season in the Big Bash League with a special “Shaheen’s Fan Bay” at the Gabba to mark the pacer’s maiden Big Bash League campaign, offering Pakistani supporters a dedicated space to celebrate one of cricket’s most electrifying fast bowlers.
Shaheen Afridi, who was picked first overall in the BBL draft this year by Brisbane Heat, will be hoping to repay the team’s faith later this year.
Active during five of Heat’s home fixtures, the Fan Bay promises a festival atmosphere, complete with Shaheen-themed gear, cultural music, and plenty of noise. Fans will also enjoy the bonus of free public transport (Translink buses and trains) to the ground on matchdays.
According to Brisbane Heat, “Shaheen’s Fan Bay” isn’t just about the chants and colours; it’s also the best spot to witness blockbuster clashes featuring Pakistan’s biggest stars facing off against each other in the BBL 15.
With Afridi’s fiery pace leading the Heat’s attack and familiar faces like Hasan Ali, Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan, and Babar Azam lining up against him, Pakistani fans in Australia are set for a series of mouthwatering duels.
| Date | Fixture | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 27, 2025 | Heat vs Scorchers | Shaheen’s first BBL game |
| Dec 29, 2025 | Heat vs Strikers | Shaheen Afridi vs Hasan Ali |
| Jan 2, 2026 | Heat vs Stars | Shaheen Afridi vs Haris Rauf |
| Jan 10, 2026 | Heat vs Thunder | Shaheen Afridi vs Shadab Khan & Ravi Ashwin |
| Jan 18, 2026 | Heat vs Sixers | Shaheen Afridi vs Babar Azam |
Heat’s move follows a similar initiative by Melbourne Stars, who have a dedicated space for Haris Rauf in their stadium, as the teams look to attract more fans to the venues.
For Brisbane, the Fan Bay is a chance to harness Afridi’s star power. For Pakistanis, it’s a slice of home, a place to unite, showcase cultural pride, and turn the Gabba into a sea of green and gold cheering on their hero.
Seats are limited, but the message is clear: whether you’re Pakistani, a cricket lover, or just want to experience something unforgettable, Shaheen’s Fan Bay is where the party’s at.