WATCH: Babar Azam reacts after Steve Smith declines single

Pakistan batter Babar Azam was seen reacting with visible disappointment during Sydney Sixers’ Big Bash League (BBL) 15 match against Sydney Thunder after teammate Steve Smith declined a single on the final ball of an over.

Footage shared on social media by the Big Bash League showed the moment occurring in the 11th over, when Babar, having faced three consecutive dot balls, appeared keen to rotate the strike. Smith opted not to take a quick single, prompting a reaction from Babar that was also noted by commentators during the broadcast.

The commentators discussed Smith’s decision, suggesting it reflected his confidence in accelerating the scoring in the following over rather than a miscommunication between the batters.

Smith went on to justify the call in the next over, scoring 32 runs by hitting back-to-back sixes and a four off a no-ball, which significantly shifted momentum in favour of the Sydney Sixers.

The Sixers eventually defeated the Sydney Thunder by five wickets, powered by a standout century from Smith and a steady contribution from Babar.

Earlier, Thunder had posted 189-6 in their 20 overs, led by captain David Warner’s unbeaten 110 off 65 balls, which included 11 fours and four sixes.

"They've said no run to that."

Steve Smith knocked a run back off the bat of Babar Azam, so he could have the strike for the Power Surge! #BBL15 pic.twitter.com/BaZET2UF2t

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 16, 2026

In response, Smith struck a rapid 42-ball century, featuring five fours and nine sixes, while Babar added 47 off 39 deliveries, including seven boundaries, as the Sixers successfully chased down the target.