BBL 2025/26: Sheer embarrassment for Babar Azam as Steve Smith denies a single and then smashes four sixes in a row

A tense moment between Steve Smith and Babar Azam during a Big Bash League match on January 16, 2026 has taken social media by storm. What seemed like a simple single turned into a conversation piece that shaped the game.

The incident took place during a Sydney derby between the Sydney Sixers and the Sydney Thunder. Chasing a stiff target of 190, the Sixers needed momentum in the middle overs.

In the 11th over of the chase, Babar was on strike and pushed the ball into a gap on the last delivery. A single was easily placed, but Smith sent it back, choosing not to run and keeping the strike.

Babar looked surprised and clearly unhappy. He shook his head and exchanged a few words, not knowing why the flight was rejected at such an important stage of the pursuit.

Smith had a clear plan. By staying on strike, he was able to take charge of the Power Surge, a two-over window where only two fielders are allowed outside the circle. He immediately wanted to attack a short boundary.

What followed was a masterclass. Smith ripped the bowling in the next over and smashed 32 runs. The over included four sixes in a row and a four, setting a new BBL record for most runs in a single over.

The drama didn’t end there. When Babar finally faced his next ball after the golf, he was clean bowled for 47 off 39 balls. His frustration was evident as he walked away and hit the boundary pad with his bat.

Smith, meanwhile, remained in full control. He then scored an unbeaten century off just 41 balls, guiding the Sixers to a seven-wicket win with ease despite the tall target.

After the game, Smith explained his thoughts. He said he planned to focus on the shorter side during the Power Surge and admitted he wasn’t sure at the time whether Babar was happy with the call.

The clip of Smith denying the single and Babar’s response spread quickly online. Fans debated the move, shared memes and praised Smith’s game awareness, turning a split-second decision into one of the most viral BBL moments this season.