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The 34th match of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2023-24 brought together two cricketing giants as Sydney Sixers’ Steve Smith and Sydney Thunder’s David Warner took the field against each other in a thrilling clash at the iconic SCG ground. Little did the fans know that amidst the intense cricketing action, a humorous exchange would unfold between the two Australian stalwarts, culminating in a golden duck for Smith on the very first ball of the match.
David Warner playfully sledges Steve Smith
The much-anticipated Sydney Smash of the BBL 13 saw Smith and his partner Vince stepping onto the crease for Sixers, eager to make an impact with their aggressive batting approach. However, Warner, who had recently announced his Test retirement on the same ground, had other plans. As Smith prepared to face the first ball, Warner initiated a playful banter.
Mocking Smith’s recent meeting with tennis legend Novak Djokovic, Warner quipped, “He’s got his tennis swing on, I reckon. Him and Novak Djokovic are mates now, so we might see a bit of top spin.”
“Nothing distracts him ever,” Warner remarked further when he saw Smith undeterred.
But Warner wasn’t finished as he went on to criticize Smith’s guard-taking technique, offering advice on how to mark it correctly if he wanted to succeed as an opener.
“No that’s not centre. To the right. Mate, if you open the batting you have got to mark it properly. One go only,” added Warner.
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Warner’s sledge results in Smith’s dismissal
Warner’s lighthearted sledging took an unexpected turn as Smith, perhaps influenced by the banter, walked across his stumps and attempted a pull shot from outside off. Unfortunately for Smith, he mistimed the shot, resulting in a top-edge that soared towards deep square leg and went straight into the hands of Nathan McAndrew. As a result, the right-handed batter had to make his way back to pavilion for a golden duck.
The video capturing Warner’s witty sledge and Smith’s subsequent dismissal spread like wildfire across the internet. Fans couldn’t get enough of the amusing exchange between the two cricketing icons, showcasing the lighter side of the sport.
Here’s the video:
GOLDEN DUCK!! 😱
An unbelievable start to the Sydney Smash as Steve Smith falls first ball after a little pre-game banter from David Warner! #BBL13 #GoldenMoment @BKTtires pic.twitter.com/3QXswZwKXj
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 12, 2024
Warner’s heroic entry via helicopter
In addition to his on-field theatrics, Warner’s entry into the SCG via helicopter ahead of the clash also came under the spotlight. Returning directly from his brother’s wedding, Warner had made a heroic entrance to participate in the Sydney Smash match, landing directly on the outfield of the SCG.
