Babar Azam Fans Flood Steve Smith’s Instagram After BBL Incident

Australian batsman Steve Smith has been inundated with abusive comments on his Instagram posts following a tense moment on the field with Babar Azam during the Big Bash League (BBL 15).

The On-Field Incident

The backlash stems from a Sydney Sixers match where Smith refused a quick single, leaving Babar visibly frustrated at the non-striker’s end. Supporters online argued that the decision disrupted Babar’s rhythm and may have affected his performance, as he was dismissed first ball of the following over after edging a big-shot attempt onto his stumps.

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Babar appeared upset walking off the field, even hitting the boundary marker with his bat as he returned to the pavilion.

Social Media Storm

After video clips of the incident circulated widely, Smith’s Instagram comment sections were flooded with insults and taunts, including lines such as:

• “Babar is your father”

• References to Smith’s 2018 ball-tampering scandal

Currently, all of Smith’s recent Instagram posts are receiving a high volume of comments from angry fans of Babar Azam.

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History of Similar Online Reactions

This is not the first time Babar’s supporters have targeted Australian players online during the Big Bash League. Earlier in the season:

• Marcus Stoinis faced a similar onslaught after a heated exchange with Babar during a Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Sixers match at the MCG

• Stoinis’s Instagram posts were flooded with comments like “King Babar”, with fans sharing screenshots showing comment numbers exceeding likes

The Stoinis incident was triggered after he tried to get under Babar’s skin and celebrated aggressively post-dismissal, reportedly saying “See you later, Babar”.

Cricket Fans’ Take

Cricket analysts note that online fan reactions are increasingly intense, particularly when national stars are involved. While passionate support for players is common, targeted harassment on social media has sparked debates about fan behavior and online etiquette.

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