Steve Smith–Babar Azam Tension Moment Turns Tactical Masterstroke in Sydney Sixers’ BBL Win
SYDNEY: A dazzling century partnership between and during the Sydney Sixers’ Big Bash League clash against the Sydney Thunder took a dramatic turn at the SCG on Friday, when Smith’s tactical call briefly sparked visible frustration from Babar. Despite the momentary tension, the decision proved decisive as the Sixers sealed a five-wicket victory.
The incident unfolded in the 11th over of the Sixers’ chase. Babar, batting fluently on 47 off 38 balls, pushed the ball into the leg side after three dot deliveries from and called for a single. Smith, however, firmly sent him back, choosing to retain the strike ahead of the BBL’s two-over floating power surge. The decision prompted a brief mid-pitch exchange, with Babar clearly displeased as the over ended.
Smith’s thinking soon became evident. Targeting the shorter boundary, he launched into a historic assault during the power surge, smashing four consecutive sixes off . The over yielded 32 runs, making it the most expensive over in BBL history. Smith finally rotated the strike off the last ball, handing Babar the chance to face in the 13th over.
However, the moment did not go Babar’s way. He was dismissed first ball, walking off visibly frustrated. He was not seen on the field after the match, though it was unclear whether he later rejoined the team.
Explaining his decision, Smith told Channel 7 that the call was pre-planned. He said the captain and coach had suggested taking the surge immediately at the 10-over mark, but he opted to wait one over to maximise conditions. Smith admitted he wasn’t sure Babar was happy with the call but felt the outcome justified the move.
Despite the brief friction, the partnership and strategy delivered emphatically. Smith went on to score a stunning 41-ball century, anchoring the chase with authority and underlining his mastery of T20 tactics.
, making his first BBL appearance in 11 years, said he had not noticed the on-field exchange, adding that batters, like bowlers, often prefer specific match-ups in the shortest format.
In the end, Smith’s calculated risk paid off handsomely, showcasing how split-second tactical calls can shape outcomes in modern T20 cricket—even if they momentarily test partnerships.