Babar’s busts in anger
Babar Azam, known for his composed batting style, found himself under the spotlight during the Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder clash on Friday. Chasing 190, the Sixers were well placed early, but Babar struggled to rotate strike during the middle overs.
In the 11th over, after three dot balls, Babar pushed the final delivery into a gap and looked set for a single. Non-striker Steve Smith declined the run, leaving Babar visibly upset. Cameras caught his frustration as the over ended, a rare sight for the Pakistan batter.
Steve Smith hit four sixes after Babar incident
After Babar’s dismissal, Steve Smith took full control of the chase. The Sixers captain brought up a century in just 41 balls, eclipsing David Warner’s earlier effort for the Thunder.
Warner had earlier scored an unbeaten 110 off 65 balls, lifting Sydney Thunder to 189 for 6 after the Sixers chose to field first.
The Sixers opted for the Power Surge immediately after. Steve Smith took full advantage, hammering four successive sixes off Ryan Hadley. The over cost 32 runs, the most expensive in Big Bash League history.
Babar’s night worsened soon after. Facing his first ball after Smith’s onslaught, he was beaten by Nathan McAndrew and dismissed for 47.
Babar’s bat smash sparks online backlash
Walking back to the pavilion, Babar smashed his bat against the boundary rope in anger. The moment drew instant criticism.
Former Australia batter Mark Waugh reacted on air, saying, “Wasn’t happy, Babar. Not a good look, that. Whatever you are feeling you don’t show that.”
On social media, fans compared the reaction to Babar’s usually calm image, with several posts mocking the lack of composure from a senior international player.
Rizwan, Afridi add to Pakistan woes
Babar’s moment was not the only setback for Pakistan players in the BBL. Mohammad Rizwan’s innings ended quietly, while Shaheen Afridi pulled out mid-over in another match, adding to the criticism online.
Rizwan Retired mid-innings
Mohammad Rizwan was made to retire out by the Melbourne Renegades against Sydney Thunder. Rizwan struggled during his inning of 26 off 23 balls before the Renegades pulled the plug. Pakistan wicket keeper became the first overseas player in the Big Bash League to be called back in the middle of the innings.
Shaheen Shah Afridi pulled out mid-over
In the game against Melbourne Renegades, Shaheen Shah Afridi bowled two waist-high no-balls, which resulted in the subsequent suspension from bowling further in the match. Nathan McSweeny completed Afridi’s over. In his 2.4-over spell, the Pakistan premier 25-year-old fast bowler conceded 43 runs without a wicket.