There was a brief panic outside Optus Stadium in Perth during the high-voltage Perth Scorchers vs Sydney Sixers qualifier in the Big Bash League 2025-26 (BBL 2025-26) after heavy smoke was seen rising near one of the gates of the stadium.
Heavy smoke spreads outside Optus Stadium during BBL qualifier
The scary moment happened when the Scorchers vs Sydney Sixers qualifier was getting underway around the 16th over. Thick smoke can be seen billowing from just outside the stadium. Fans and officials immediately noticed the smoke and concern grew as clips began circulating on social media.
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Even the Big Bash League later shared a video of the incident on Twitter, which shows smoke billowing from just outside the Optus Stadium area. Security staff and stadium officials responded immediately.
To control the situation and ensure that there is no panic among the fans and players, several security personnel were seen running towards the affected area from where the smoke was coming. The smoke appears to have come from a small fire behind the stand, possibly involving glass or waste material.
#bbl15 pic.twitter.com/rzxKm8HiFT
– KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) 20 January 2026
It’s…not ideal right outside Optus Stadium.#bbl15 pic.twitter.com/CLTlQMoORX
– 7cricket (@7cricket) 20 January 2026
to be continued…
