Sixers Move On as Steve Smith Defuses Babar Azam Tension

News Desk 

Islamabad: Sydney Sixers captain Steve Smith has sought to calm speculation of a rift with Babar Azam, insisting relations between the two batting stars remain cordial following a much-discussed on-field incident that dominated headlines after Friday night’s clash at the SCG.

The controversy unfolded during the Sixers’ five-wicket win over Sydney Thunder when Smith declined a single late in the 11th over to retain strike ahead of the Power Surge — a tactical phase that allows fewer fielders outside the circle. The decision left Babar visibly frustrated, despite the Pakistani star having compiled a steady 47 off 39 balls in a crucial partnership.

Smith’s move proved decisive. Taking strike for the surge, the former Australian captain unleashed a brutal assault, plundering a record 32 runs in the over. Yet the milestone moment was overshadowed by reports that Babar felt “disrespected” by the call, choosing to isolate himself in the changerooms and skipping the traditional post-match handshakes on the field.

According to multiple reports, Sixers coach Greg Shipperd attempted to address the issue with Babar, while it was also revealed that Smith had informed his teammate an over earlier of his intention to take the first ball of the Power Surge.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s match against Brisbane Heat, Smith brushed aside suggestions of lingering tension.

Read More: https://thepenpk.com/babar-azams-quiet-fifty-thunderous-record-in-bbl-clash/

“Yeah, we’re good,” Smith said. “We were chatting before. I thought he batted really nicely the other night. We put on a good partnership and were even talking about golf.”

Smith added there was no awkwardness between the pair, even joking about a potential future golf outing in New York, where he spends time during the off-season.

Despite Smith’s assurances, Babar’s visible frustration — including slapping the boundary rope as he walked off after his dismissal — drew criticism from former Australian captain Mark Waugh, who questioned the optics of the reaction.

“Whatever you’re feeling, you don’t show that,” Waugh said. “It’s not a good feeling for the team environment.”

Waugh also highlighted Babar’s absence during the post-match handshake as “not a good look,” further fuelling debate around professionalism and team culture in high-pressure T20 environments.

While the Sixers appear keen to move on, the episode has sparked broader discussion about communication, ego management and leadership within star-studded franchise teams — especially when tactical decisions collide with personal milestones. For now, Smith’s message is clear: the issue is in the past, and the focus is firmly on winning cricket.