Pakistan's star batter, Babar Azam, exhibited a rare moment of frustration and anger during a Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 match for the Sydney Sixers against the Sydney Thunder on January 16, 2026. The incident unfolded during the Sixers' chase of 190, when Azam, batting with Australian stalwart Steve Smith, was denied a seemingly comfortable single on the final ball of the 11th over. Smith's tactical decision to retain strike for the upcoming Power Surge overs visibly upset Azam, who struggled to hide his emotions. Immediately following this contentious moment, Smith unleashed a record-breaking assault, smashing 32 runs off the very next over, including four consecutive sixes, making it the most expensive over in BBL history. However, Babar Azam's frustration escalated when he was dismissed for 47 runs on the very first ball he faced after Smith's explosive over, chopping a delivery onto his stumps. As he walked back to the pavilion, a visibly furious Azam smashed his bat against the boundary rope, a reaction that quickly went viral and drew commentary from former players like Mark Waugh. Despite the tension, Smith went on to score a brilliant century, leading the Sixers to a five-wicket victory. The episode highlights the intense pressure and high stakes of professional T20 cricket.