The much-hyped World Cup clash between India and Pakistan turned out to be a damp squib on Sunday with India romping home to a facile 89-run win (D/L method).
However, Indian players, particularly Rohit Sharma and ViratKohli, came in for a lot of praise from across the border for their performanceand the Indian captain’s display of sportsmanship.
One of the moments which drew applause from Pakistan fans onsocial media was when Kohli enquired if pacer Wahab Riaz was okay after thelatter slipped and fell on his follow through. The two then exchanged smilesand carried on.
Later in the innings, Kohli’s march to a 42nd ODI ton wasstopped when he seemingly nicked a delivery off Mohammad Amir to thewicketkeeper. The umpire did not raise his finger but the Indian captain walkedanyhow while replays showed that there was in fact a big gap between bat andball.
“Virat Kohli is such a gentleman. The sportsmanship hedisplayed is reflection of his grandeur. He knew he edged it and thereforewalked off instead of waiting for umpire’s decision. Patted Wahab when he fell.He has won a million more fans! How can anyone hate him,” asked one fan onsocial media.
“Best batsman, best captain, best athlete, best humanbeing. Cricket will never see another Virat Kohli,” said another. Another fan said that the warmth between theplayers made matches between India and Pakistan special. “Forget all thetalks about rivalry, this warmth between the players is what makes India vsPakistan special. Take a bow Virat Kohli and Wahab Riaz #IndiaVsPakistan,”read the tweet.