In a spectacular display of cricketing prowess and sportsmanship, India extended their unbeaten run to 8-0 in ODI World Cups by defeating Pakistan with seven wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on a memorable Saturday.
What added a heartwarming touch to this intense rivalry was the gesture from the Indian cricket star, Virat Kohli, who gifted an autographed jersey to Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam.
In a video shared on Instagram by the ICC Cricket World Cup’s official handle, cricket fans witnessed a touching moment as Virat Kohli handed over the jersey to Babar Azam. The two cricket superstars engaged in a candid conversation about the game, reminding the world that respect transcends boundaries, even in cricket’s fiercest contest.
The encounters between India and Pakistan on the cricket field are rare, primarily limited to ICC tournaments, making them highly anticipated and emotionally charged. Despite the fierce rivalry, Kohli and Babar have always shown mutual respect for each other.
Virat Kohli, the 34-year-old Indian batting sensation, acknowledged Babar Azam’s extraordinary talent by placing him at the pinnacle of all formats of the sport. In response, Babar Azam referred to Virat Kohli as his role model, highlighting the admiration that transcends the boundaries of nationality.
While the heartwarming exchange between the two cricket icons was widely appreciated by the crowd in the stadium and people on social media, it also stirred contrasting opinions. Notably, former Pakistan left-arm pacer Wasim Akram expressed his disapproval of the public display of the gesture.
“Everybody is showing this clip over and over again. But after your fans are so hurt after a disappointing performance, this should be a private matter; it should not be done in an open ground,” remarked Wasim Akram during a television show on A Sports.
WATCH: Virat Kohli presents Babar Azam with an autographed jersey
Wasim Akram’s perspective brings an interesting dimension to the conversation. The emotional investment of fans in this storied rivalry is unparalleled. The disappointment of the losing side’s supporters can be deep and enduring. Some argue that such gestures should remain private to avoid further exacerbating the hurt feelings of the losing team’s fans.