The latest Sydney Smash derby between the Sixers and the Thunder at the SCG was packed with drama, both on and off the field. In a battle for Big Bash supremacy, it was ultimately the Sixers who emerged victorious, claiming a 19-run win and booking their spot in the finals. But the night’s biggest talking point was undoubtedly the cheeky sledge from David Warner that sent his Australia’s new Test opener, Steve Smith, packing for a golden duck.
Warner, arriving in a grand helicopter entrance, couldn’t resist a few playful jabs at Smith as he nervously adjusted his guard before facing the first ball. His lighthearted comments about Smith’s pre-delivery routine and bat placement seemed to do the trick, as Smith skies the first ball straight into the hands of Nathan McAndrew, departing for a disappointing duck.
Mic’d up for the occasion, Warner playfully mocked Steve Smith’s pre-delivery routine, trying to distract the seasoned batsman.
“Nothing’s distracting him, nothing ever distracts him,” deadpanned David Warner, attempting to get into Smith’s head. As Steve Smith marked his guard, David Warner continued the banter, saying, “Nah, that’s not center, little bit to the right. If you open the batting mate, you’ve got to mark it properly! One go only!”
“I don’t think Steve Smith has mishit one for the Sixers in two seasons, I can’t believe that,” exclaimed cricket legend Mark Waugh in the commentary box.
Steve Smith last laugh vs David Warner
Despite the early dismissal, Steve Smith and his team would have the last laugh. The Sixers, led by Josh Philippe’s top-scoring knock of 47, posted a decent 151-7 on the board. Then, veteran spinner Steve O’Keefe unleashed his magic, claiming 3-13 and skittling the Thunder out for just 132.
Even David Warner, who fell for a frustrating 37 after a flashy helicopter entrance, couldn’t resist O’Keefe’s spin wizardry. Following the win, O’Keefe, in a surprise announcement, revealed this Big Bash season would be his last. “This is it. This is the last year,” he declared. He admitted his retirement wasn’t exactly a secret, hinting that everyone probably knew unless they could “borrow David Warner’s helicopter.”
This win secures the Sixers’ place in the Big Bash finals, joining the Brisbane Heat and Perth Scorchers in the playoffs. The Adelaide Strikers and Melbourne Stars are still battling for the final spot, with the race for the championship heating up.
One thing’s for sure: the Big Bash is full of unexpected twists and turns, and this season is no different. From Warner’s playful sledges to O’Keefe’s surprise retirement, the drama on and off the field promises to keep us entertained until the final ball is bowled. So, buckle up, cricket fans, because the Big Bash is just getting started!
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