A significant wave of online abuse has flooded Steve Smith’s Instagram account. This backlash emerged after a tense on-field moment involving star cricketer Babar Azam during a Big Bash League (BBL) match, consequently igniting anger among a section of Pakistani fans. This incident highlights a concerning trend of Babar Azam fans harassment directed at players.
The On-Field Incident: What Sparked the Backlash?
The controversy unfolded during a Sydney Sixers match. Smith refused a quick single, visibly frustrating Babar Azam at the non-striker’s end. Online, numerous supporters asserted that Smith’s decision disrupted Babar’s rhythm. Furthermore, they claimed it “cost” him a significant personal milestone. The tension was palpable on the field.
Following this, Babar was dismissed on the very first ball of the next over. He edged an attempted big shot onto his stumps, consequently walking off the field looking upset. He was even seen hitting the boundary marker with his bat on his return to the dugout. Clearly, the incident weighed heavily on him.
Explosion of Online Abuse: “Babar is Your Father”
After the clip of the on-field interaction circulated widely across social media platforms, Smith’s comment sections rapidly filled with insults and taunts. Shockingly, some comments included lines such as “Babar is your father.” Additionally, certain users dredged up references to Smith’s 2018 ball-tampering scandal, intensifying the personal attacks. This type of online aggression is unacceptable.
Babar Azam fans are now spamming Steven Smith's Instagram comment section.
This is too humiliating. pic.twitter.com/yVCzAhUecY
— Abdullah (@michaelscottfc) January 16, 2026
Currently, every one of Steve Smith’s recent Instagram posts remains flooded with comments from angry Babar Azam fans harassment. The sheer volume of negative remarks underscores the intensity of the online backlash he is experiencing.
A Pattern of Online Harassment: Not an Isolated Incident
Significantly, this is not the first instance where Babar Azam’s supporters have swarmed an Australian player’s social media during BBL 15. Earlier in the season, Marcus Stoinis faced a strikingly similar online pile-on. This occurred after a heated on-field exchange with Babar during a Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Sixers match at the iconic MCG.
The Marcus Stoinis Episode: “King Babar” Flood
Following that prior incident, Stoinis’s Instagram posts were reportedly overwhelmed with comments such as “King Babar.” Fans actively shared screenshots, with some asserting that one post even garnered more comments than likes. This demonstrates a coordinated effort to dominate the comment sections.
The online reaction against Stoinis was primarily triggered by his actions during Babar’s innings. Stoinis repeatedly attempted to unsettle Babar. Subsequently, he celebrated aggressively after taking Babar’s wicket. He was distinctly heard saying words to the effect of “See you later, Babar,” which further inflamed supporters. Such exchanges, while common in cricket, can spark intense reactions online.
