Particle.news
Download on the App Store
60 ARTICLES
·
6h ago

Smith Plays Down Rift With Babar Azam After Power Surge Call as Sixers Reach Qualifier

Smith calls the single denial a planned tactic, pointing to pre-match cordiality to cool talk of a rift.

Perth Scorchers are pumped for their sold-out clash with Melbourne Stars.
Image
Image
Finn Allen and Aaron Hardie have secured top spot for the Scorchers.

Overview

  • Before the Gabba game, Steve Smith told broadcasters there was “nothing untoward” with Babar Azam, with training footage showing the pair chatting.
  • In Brisbane, Babar was out for 1 off 7 as the Sixers chased 172; Sam Curran’s 53* and Smith’s 54 sealed a five‑wicket win and a place in the first qualifier against the Scorchers on January 20.
  • A CODE Sports piece claimed Babar told teammates he felt “disrespected” after the Thunder match, a report based on unnamed sources that has not been independently verified.
  • On-air audio captured Thunder spinner Chris Green saying they wanted Babar to face “as many balls as possible,” amplifying scrutiny of his tempo; Babar’s season sits at roughly 202 runs at a strike rate near 104.
  • The flashpoint came when Smith refused a routine single before the Power Surge, then blasted a BBL-record 32-run over as Babar showed visible frustration; on Sunday Babar was seen offering Smith a consoling pat after a difficult dropped catch.