New Delhi, Jan. 16 -- Babar Azam's visible anger stole the spotlight in the Big Bash League's Sydney derby, overshadowing even Steve Smith's explosive century. The Pakistan star's frustrated reaction after being denied a run and then dismissed highlighted tensions in the high-stakes chase.

The drama began in the field during Sydney Thunder's innings. A straight drive from Nic Maddinson led to confusion between long-off Steve Smith and long-on Babar Azam. Smith expected Babar to stop the ball, but hesitation allowed a boundary. Smith threw his arms up in disbelief, with commentators joking about the mix-up. This set a tense tone for their partnership later.

Chasing 190, Babar and Smith built a strong 141-run opening stand. In the 11th ov...