Australian batter Travis Head and his wife Jessica have once again been subjected to online abuse from sections of Indian cricket fans, following a heated on-field exchange with Virat Kohli during 2026
Indian Premier League (IPL).
The controversy erupted after Sunrisers Hyderabad’s emphatic victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru, with a viral interaction between Kohli and Head sparking intense reactions across social media.
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According to Jessica Head, the backlash quickly escalated beyond criticism of the players, with abusive messages also targeting their close friends and family members.
“It feels like a repeat of the abuse that happened after the World Cup,” she told Australian media outlet The Advertiser.
“I woke up to my socials blasting… we are fine but they are attacking my friends and family.”
Not The First Time?
Jessica explained that this was not an isolated incident. Similar online harassment followed Australia’s major victories over India in recent years, including the 2023 ODI World Cup final, the World Test Championship final and the 2024 Boxing Day Test. She added that the abuse had previously included disturbing threats directed at their young daughter.
Calling for greater responsibility from fans online, Jessica emphasised the importance of empathy and respectful behaviour in sport.
“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,” she said.
“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.”
What Exactly Happened Between Kohli and Head?
The latest episode began during RCB’s chase against Sunrisers Hyderabad when Kohli and Head exchanged words in the middle. Head had reportedly encouraged Kohli to play more attacking cricket, prompting a sarcastic response from the former RCB captain, who asked the Australian to bowl himself despite being used as an Impact Player.
#ViratKohli 🆚 #TravisHead 🥵🤯
Tensions rise in high voltage clash🔥#TATAIPL Race to Playoffs 2026 👉 #SRHvRCB | LIVE NOW ➡️https://t.co/52qPTW2gSO pic.twitter.com/JOiWaxNW6T
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After Kohli’s dismissal, Head appeared to respond with another remark, further intensifying tensions between the two players. The situation drew even more attention after the match when Head attempted to shake Kohli’s hand during the post-game greetings, only for Kohli to walk past him while greeting other SRH players.
