Australian cricketer Steve Smith has addressed and dismissed widespread reports of a rift and 'dressing room tension' with Pakistani batter Babar Azam during their stint with the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League (BBL 2025/26). The speculation originated from an on-field incident during a match against Sydney Thunder on January 16, 2026. During the game, Smith notably denied Azam a single to retain strike for the Power Surge, a tactical move that led to Smith smashing a BBL-record 32 runs in the subsequent over. Babar Azam appeared visibly frustrated by the decision and his subsequent dismissal, with reports from CODE Sports (cited by multiple outlets) claiming he felt 'disrespected' and isolated himself in the dressing room post-match, skipping customary handshakes. Speaking to broadcasters ahead of the Sixers' clash against Brisbane Heat, Smith directly addressed the presenter's question, 'Have you and Babar made up?' He responded, 'Nah, he's good. We were just chatting before.' Smith further clarified that their conversation revolved around golf, indicating no underlying animosity. Footage of Smith and Azam chatting casually during a pre-match training session was also shown, corroborating Smith's statements. Smith had previously explained his decision to deny the single as a pre-planned tactical move to target the short boundary during the Power Surge. While the incident sparked significant media debate and criticism from some former cricketers, Smith's recent statements and the visible interaction between the players suggest the rumors of a serious fallout have been put to rest.