in a season where sydney sixers After being in the spotlight, a moment of pure teammate solidarity at the Gabba reminded fans why the “Magenta” team is so tight-knit this year. During the 40th match of BBL|15 brisbane heatfrom pakistan Babar Azam Showed why he is a leader on and off the field by consoling his starting teammate, steve smithAfter a rare miss in the field.
Steve Smith dropped the catch of Nathan McSweeney
The incident happened on the last ball of the 5th over when Sean Abbott was charging. heat opener nathan mcsweeney Hits a powerful cut shot on a back-of-a-length delivery. The ball headed towards backward point, where Smith stood much closer than usual to maintain the pressure.
Smith, known to have some of the best hands in world cricket, reacted by placing an inverted cup above his head. However, the ball did not stick due to the sheer speed of the shot, disappointing the experienced Australian.
Also read: Tactical genius or team friction? Mitchell Starc weighs in on Steve Smith-Babar Azam drama in BBL|15
Babar Azam’s heartwarming reaction to Smith’s mistake in the field
Babar, posted in the cover area nearby, did not hesitate. As soon as the ball dropped and the over ended, Babar ran towards a disappointed Smith. Instead of focusing on the lost opportunity, Babar offered heartfelt consolation at the back, sharing a few words to lift Smith’s spirits before the change at the end.
It was a momentous moment for the Sixers faithful, as they saw two of their leading international stars – who usually open the batting together – supporting each other during the defensive phase of the game.
Here is the video:
Dropped!
Babar Azam was quick to reach out to Steve Smith after leaving a very difficult chance at the Gabba. #bbl15 pic.twitter.com/U79dwI7OqI
– KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) 18 January 2026
The gesture comes after a number of high-pressure moments for the pair this season, including their record-breaking opening partnership against the Thunder. While there have been tactical debates between them during their batting stints, Babar’s immediate support for Smith in the field highlights the deep mutual respect and growing “bromance” between the two.
