The family of Pakistan cricket captain Salman Ali Agha faced online abuse after their team lost to England in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Super Eight match.
Hours after the defeat, Agha’s wife urged fans on Instagram not to target families, especially children, when expressing disappointment over Pakistan’s tournament performance.
She wrote: “Sending me or my innocent son abuse is not going to win you the World Cup, Pakistani fans,” highlighting the personal toll of fan frustration online.
The loss sparked criticism of Pakistan’s performance and Agha’s captaincy, but some fans crossed the line with vulgar threats and personal attacks on his family.
Her post highlighted a recurring issue in Pakistan cricket, where players’ families, particularly those with dual heritage, sometimes face online harassment and accusations, including being labeled “English agents.”
Salman Ali Agha reflected after the game, admitting Pakistan fell short of their innings plan and praising England’s Harry Brook for a match-winning century off 51 balls.
The Men in Green have only one point after their washed-out match against New Zealand, leaving them with very slim chances of qualifying for the semi-finals.
Pakistan will need England to beat New Zealand, Sri Lanka to defeat New Zealand, and Pakistan to secure a win against co-host Sri Lanka to remain in contention.
Another scenario arises if England defeat New Zealand, New Zealand beat Sri Lanka, and Pakistan win against Sri Lanka, making their semi-final progression entirely dependent on net run rate.
If Sri Lanka wins both their remaining matches against Pakistan and New Zealand, Pakistan and New Zealand will be eliminated from the competition, ending their hopes of reaching the semi-finals.
