Why this cricket player felt ‘disrespected’ and exploded, a breakdown

Jan 24, 2026 122.8K views 9:40

What Happened

Steve Smith, the captain of the Australian cricket team, steps up to bat in a crucial moment during a match in the Australian franchise league. His teammate, Babar Azam, who plays for the Pakistani national team, is also on the field. The score is tied, and the stakes are high as the two teams battle for a crucial win. As the ball is delivered, Babar wants to take a quick single, but Steve denies him, opting instead to take the "power surge" - a period of the game where only two fielders are allowed outside the inner circle, allowing for more scoring opportunities. Babar is visibly upset by Steve's decision, his hand on his hip as he expresses his frustration. Undeterred, Steve steps up to the crease and unleashes a barrage of powerful strokes, hitting three consecutive sixes off the first three deliveries. The crowd erupts in cheers as Steve proves his point, showcasing his ability to capitalize on the power surge. Babar, still visibly displeased, responds by hitting a massive six of his own, celebrating with a unique hand gesture. As the over continues, Steve continues his onslaught, scoring a total of five sixes and a four, racking up 24 runs in the over. The bowler appears helpless, unable to find a way to stop Steve's onslaught. Steve's confidence grows, and he taunts Babar, telling him to "take a rest" after each of his powerful hits. Babar, still visibly upset, refuses to congratulate Steve on his impressive display, turning away as Steve tries to engage him. The tension between the two players is palpable, with Babar's frustration boiling over as he fails to score on the next delivery, getting dismissed and storming off the field, hitting the boundary rope with his bat in anger. After the match, Steve reflects on the incident, acknowledging the importance of maintaining composure and not letting emotions get the better of one's performance. The fallout from the incident leads to Babar missing the team's playoff squad, as he is reported to have hidden in the clubhouse and left the tournament early, unable to move past the tense exchange with his teammate.

Full Transcript

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We've got a ball delivered and hit. The

batter wants to run. His teammate says,

"No, let's not run. Stay there." They

could have scored a run. He said, "No, I

don't want that run." It's kind of