Babar Azam and Steve Smith starred in the Sydney derby during the 2025/26 Big Bash League (BBL 15) with a commanding 141-run opening partnership. Their performance powered the Sydney Sixers while chasing a target of 190 set by the Sydney Thunder.
Thunder Sets a Competitive Total
The Thunder posted 189 for 6 in their 20 overs. David Warner led the innings with a dominant unbeaten 110 off 65 balls, including 11 fours and 4 sixes. His effort helped the Thunder reach a competitive total that seemed challenging for the Sixers.
Steve Smith and Babar Azam approached the chase with contrasting styles. Smith went on the attack from the first ball, scoring a blistering 100 off just 41 deliveries. His innings featured 5 fours and 9 sixes, including a record-breaking over where he hit 4 consecutive sixes and a boundary, totaling 32 runs—the most runs in a single BBL over in history.
Babar Anchors the Chase
While Smith attacked, Babar Azam played a calm and calculated innings. He scored 47 off 39 balls, including 7 fours. Babar rotated the strike effectively, keeping the partnership steady as the Sixers crossed 100 runs inside 10 overs. His measured approach complemented Smith’s aggression and ensured the chase remained under control.
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The 141-run opening stand ultimately made the chase look effortless. Babar Azam and Steve Smith’s partnership set the tone for the Sixers’ innings and led them to victory. The derby win highlighted both players’ skill and teamwork, with Babar’s anchoring role and Smith’s explosive batting proving decisive.
Their performance reinforced their importance to the Sixers this BBL season and thrilled fans of both the team and the league.
