SYDENY: The controversy surrounding Steve Smith and Babar Azam in the Big Bash League (BBL) continues to dominate discussions in Australian media, stemming from a tense tactical decision during the Sydney Sixers’ match against Sydney Thunder at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
In the 11th over of the Sixers’ chase of 190, Babar Azam pushed the ball to long-on and signaled for a single, but Smith emphatically refused it, opting to retain the strike for the start of the Power Surge (the BBL’s two-over powerplay window).
Smith had reportedly informed Babar in the previous over of his plan to take charge, citing the short boundary on the leg side and his intent to target a big over.
The decision proved masterful: Smith then unleashed a BBL-record 32 runs off the next over bowled by Ryan Hadley, including four consecutive sixes, swinging the momentum decisively in the Sixers’ favor and helping secure a five-wicket victory.
Smith went on to smash a rapid century (off 42 balls), while Babar contributed 47 off 39 balls in their 141-run opening stand.
However, Babar appeared visibly frustrated on the field after the refusal. When he finally got back on strike in the 13th over, he was dismissed first ball (chopping onto his stumps), and walked off angrily, smashing his bat against the boundary cushion.
Australian media reports (including from CODE Sports) described the reaction as a “stunning tantrum” or “epic dummy spit,” claiming Babar felt “disrespected” by the move.
He reportedly isolated himself in the changing room post-match, refused to join teammates for the customary handshakes with the opposition, and even told teammates he felt slighted.
Sixers coach Greg Shipperd is said to have intervened to calm the situation.
The incident drew sharp criticism from former players during commentary and analysis:
- Mark Waugh called Babar’s bat-smashing display “not a good look,” emphasizing that frustrations should not be shown publicly as it harms team environment, and noted Babar’s absence from the post-match handshakes was disappointing. He added that Babar should have been pleased with the team’s successful strategy.
- Michael Vaughan defended Smith, stating that in team sports, tough individual decisions are sometimes necessary, and Smith was proven right by the 32-run over.
- Adam Gilchrist expressed disappointment, questioning what example Babar’s frustrated exit set for young kids watching, given his status as a class player who has performed well in the tournament.
On the other hand, some Pakistani voices (like Kamran Akmal) viewed Smith’s refusal as disrespectful, suggesting better communication could have avoided the issue.
