Overview
- In the SCG derby, Smith refused Babar a routine single before the Power Surge, then blasted a BBL-record 32-run over and reached a 41-ball century as the Sixers chased 190.
- Broadcast coverage showed Babar’s visible frustration during the exchange and his bat striking the boundary cushion after he was dismissed on his first ball back on strike.
- Code Sports reported Babar told teammates he felt “disrespected” and skipped post-match on-field proceedings, with head coach Greg Shipperd said to have intervened to ease tension.
- Before facing Brisbane Heat, Smith told broadcasters “he’s good” as pre-match footage showed the pair chatting, and he reiterated the strike-retention was a pre-discussed tactical plan.
- Former Pakistan players criticized the move and fans flooded Smith’s social media with abuse, while debate referenced Babar’s BBL form of 201 runs in nine innings at a relatively low strike rate.