Steve Smith Explains Tactical Call Behind Turning Down Single in BBL Clash
Steve Smith Babar BBL incident became the talk of the Sydney Sixers’ match against Sydney Thunder at the SCG on Friday. The incident occurred during a fluent century partnership between Smith and Babar Azam. Smith chose to deny a single to retain strike ahead of the power surge. He later explained that the decision was purely tactical. Ultimately, the move paid off as the Sixers chased the target and won by five wickets.
Mid-Pitch Exchange Sparks Visible Tension
During the 11th over, Babar Azam, batting on 47 from 38 balls, looked for a single after three dot balls from Chris Green. However, Smith turned him down and clearly signalled his intent to retain strike. As a result, Babar appeared unhappy when they crossed mid-pitch at the end of the over. Soon after, the tension became more evident. Babar fell first ball to Nathan McAndrew and walked off in frustration.
Smith’s Power Surge Blitz Turns the Game
In response, Smith justified his decision with an explosive display. Immediately, he took full advantage of the power surge. He smashed four consecutive sixes off Ryan Hadley. Consequently, the over became the most expensive in Big Bash League history. From that point on, the momentum swung firmly in the Sixers’ favour. Although Smith later took a single to give Babar the strike, the damage was already done. Thereafter, Smith went on to score a blistering 41-ball century.
Smith Explains Strategy as Sixers Seal Win
After the match, Smith explained the thinking behind his call. According to him, the plan followed a discussion with the captain and coach at the ten-over mark. Specifically, Smith wanted to target the short boundary and maximise the surge. In fact, he aimed for 30 runs and scored 32 instead. “I’m not sure Babar was too happy,” Smith admitted. Meanwhile, Mitchell Starc noted that batters often prefer certain match-ups in T20 cricket. However, Babar did not appear on the field after the match. So far, the team has not confirmed the reason
