Steve Smith was visibly shocked by Isa Guha’s ‘Babar Azam’ question after BBL controversy

Australian batting superstar Steve Smith has finally addressed his equation with Babar Azam after the much-publicised single-denial incident in the ongoing Big Bash League 2025-26 (BBL 2025-26).

Steve Smith opens up his comparison with Babar Azam after SCG drama

During the BBL 2025-26 clash between the Sydney Sixers and the Sydney Thunder at the SCG, Smith shocked many when he denied Babar a single during the Power Surge. The moment immediately sparked debate, with many wondering if there was tension between the two modern greats.

However, Smith has now clarified that there was no bad blood at all. In fact, the two had already had a relaxed conversation. The Australian batting icon had informed Babar in advance that he wanted to hold the stroke for the first ball of the Power Surge.

Also read: Felt disrespected: Babar Azam breaks silence on BBL Steve Smith controversy

The Australian star praised Babar’s batting and highlighted how well the Pakistani batsman played against the Sydney Thunder and how smoothly their partnership came together. He also revealed they even discussed golf after training for the Brisbane Heat match.

Smith praises Babar and reveals a friendly bond off the field

Steve Smith told the broadcasters on Fox Cricket: “No, he’s good. We were chatting earlier, so yeah, I thought he batted really well last night. We had a good partnership. Yeah, we’d talked about our golf before, so you can see that on the screen. Look, he’s looking forward to tonight. Looks like a nice wicket, so hopefully we can get off to a good start again.”

To put a fun twist on the story, Smith also revealed that a possible golf outing is planned in the future if Babar ever makes a trip to New York. He signed off by saying, “I haven’t done that yet, but yeah, if he’s ever there.”

“Did you and Babar make up?”

Response from Steve Smith 👇 ⛳ #BBL15 pic.twitter.com/I4Gb8Y8ISM

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 18, 2026

Babar Azam skips the post-match handshake at SCG

Meanwhile, Babar Azam was not happy after a tense moment with Steve Smith at the SCG. Smith’s decision to take over the offense in the Power Surge upset Babar, who felt he was not being treated with respect.

Also Read: Haris Rauf Gets Physical With Finn Allen And Pushes Him Violently In BBL – This Happens Next

As reported by Code Sports, Babar did not join his teammates for the customary handshakes after the end of the match. While the rest of the Sixers players took the field, Babar stayed behind in the locker room. His absence was noticed by many and quickly became a topic of conversation.

The reporter added that Babar kept himself away from the team and shared his frustration with a few teammates. He was clearly disappointed and decided not to participate in the festivities after the victory.

Greg Shipperd has taken the edge off the Sixers camp!!

Seeing the situation growing, Sixers head coach Greg Shipperd intervened. He spoke to Babar privately to calm things down and ensure the issue did not affect the team atmosphere. This incident has created a lot of controversy in the ongoing Big Bash League 2025-2026.

Despite the tension, Babar has been included in the playing XI for the final group match against the Brisbane Heat. He has had a mixed season so far, with 201 runs at an average of 28.71 and a strike rate of 107.48 in the tournament.