WATCH | Babar Azam Felt Disrespected by Steve Smith Following Refused Single | Reports

A report claimed Babar Azam felt disrespected after Steve Smith refused a single during a Big Bash League match for the Sydney Sixers, reportedly leading to dressing-room tension.

Tension from the Big Bash League match between the Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder has carried beyond the field. Opening for the Sixers, Babar Azam and Steve Smith added 141 runs. However, the partnership has drawn attention for an on-field moment late in the innings.

Smith chose to turn down a single to maximise the Power Surge, a Big Bash League rule allowing additional fielding restrictions in the second half of an innings. The decision delivered immediate results. Smith hit 32 runs in the following over and went on to score 100 from 42 balls at a strike rate above 200.

This was followed by Babar’s dismissal, after which he showed visible frustration near the boundary. He contributed 47 from 39 deliveries, scoring at 120.51. Sydney Sixers chased 190 to secure a five-wicket win with 16 balls remaining in the 37th match of the season.

A report from Code Sports later suggested that the issue extended into the dressing room. Babar did not appear during post-match scenes despite the Sixers’ win. Sources indicated tension inside the camp, with Babar unhappy over the incident.

Watch the video here:

🚨 Babar Azam denied single by Steve Smith 😂

Pakistani’s are born to be humiliated.#BabarAzam #bbl pic.twitter.com/hSukdOmWJH

— Kushal Sharma (@KushalSharma_89) January 16, 2026

Smith later acknowledged Babar’s frustration but added the move was tactical. Babar has been named in the playing XI for the next game against Brisbane Heat on Sunday, January 18.