Pakistan star Babar Azam appeared visibly frustrated with teammate Steve Smith during the 2025/26 Big Bash League (BBL) 15 Sydney derby between Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), after Smith declined a quick single on the final ball of an over.
A short clip shared on social media captured Babar’s reaction in the 11th over, where he could be seen expressing disappointment when Smith chose not to run. The moment stood out because Babar Azam had just played out three dot balls in a row and seemed keen to rotate the strike before the over ended.
Commentators also picked up on the exchange during the broadcast, suggesting Smith’s decision was likely tactical, banking on his ability to attack in the next over rather than risking a run-out or losing control of the strike.
Smith then delivered an immediate response with the bat. He launched back-to-back sixes in the following over and also benefited from a no-ball, helping Sydney Sixers collect a massive 32 runs from the over and swing momentum their way.
Despite the surge, viewers noted Babar still looked annoyed and did not appear to celebrate Smith’s big hits with much enthusiasm.
The tension seemed to linger, as Babar was dismissed first ball of the next over, edging an attempted big shot onto his stumps. He walked off looking upset and was seen hitting the boundary marker with his bat on the way back.
“Wasn’t happy, Babar.” 😳
Drama in the middle of the SCG after Steve Smith knocked back a run from Babar Azam, so he could take strike during the Power Surge. #BBL15 pic.twitter.com/rTh0RXE0A5
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 16, 2026
Sydney Sixers ultimately won the match by five wickets, driven by Smith’s exceptional hundred and key support from Babar.
In the chase, Smith tore into the attack with a 42-ball century, featuring nine sixes and five fours, while Babar added 47 off 39 deliveries with seven boundaries.
After the match, Smith addressed the moment during the post-match presentation, explaining it was part of a planned approach.
He said the message at the 10-over stage was to take the surge immediately, but he wanted to wait an extra over to target the shorter boundary and aim for a big over, something he felt worked out, even if Babar “wasn’t too happy” about the refused single.
