Australian cricketer Travis Head and his family reportedly became targets of disturbing online abuse after a tense on-field spat with Indian superstar Virat Kohli. The verbal altercation took place during the match between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 22. Head played a crucial role in Hyderabad’s victory, but the game also featured a visible exchange of words between the Australian batter and Virat Kohli. After the match, Head appeared to extend his hand toward Kohli however, Kohli walked past Head without shaking the hand.
"I woke up to my socials blasting... we are fine but they are attacking my friends and family," Head's wife, Jessica, told Australian media outlet The Advertiser.
Jess said that she was reminded of similar vile messages she was subjected to after Australia's victory over India at the 2023 ODI World Cup.
"It feels like a repeat of the abuse that happened after the World Cup," Jess said.
Head's wife also urged fans to be more respectful so that compassion could prevail.
“I think across all sports at the moment there’s an important conversation around mental health, perspective and the way we speak to one another. Passion will always be part of sport, but so is remembering there are real people and families behind the game. Hopefully, this encourages more kindness, and support for one another,” Jessica added.
Meanwhile, RCB, who are domination the points table, will go against Gujarat Titans in the first playoff on Wednesday with the winner qualifying for the final. On the other hand, SRH will meet Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator on Wednesday.