Pakistan and India have always been each other’s arch-rivals in cricket. Not only do we see competition between the teams but also between the players. However, in recent years, things have started to change a bit. Healthy competition does exist, but we also see cricketers like Virat Kohli and Babar Azam supporting each other from across the border.
Exchange of wholesome moments
A glimpse of it was seen at the 2017 champions trophy when Malik and Dhoni were laughing together. In 2021, Babar Azam and Virat Kohli entered the ground while smiling. After the game, we saw the Indian skipper and the Pakistani wicket-keeper batsman Mohammad Rizwan hugging each other.
Things don’t look so bright for Virat Kohli at the current moment
The former Indian captain is not having the best time of his life in the cricketing world. He is struggling quite a lot as he is stuck in the 70th century. Rumors have been flying that he may be dropped after the T20I world cup if his form does not improve. Azam was able to steal the number 1 ODI spot from Virat Kohli. Later, Imam ul Haq surpassed Kohli to become the second-best ODI batsman. The rivalry still exists, but it looks like we see a change in dynamics.
Babar Azam’s post and the reply
Social media exploded when the skipper of the green team extended his support to Virat Kohli. He posted a picture of them together and wrote, “This too shall pass. Stay strong“
There were mixed views about this post and nobody expected Kohli to reply, but their prediction was proved wrong, and he wrote, “Thank you. Keep shining and rising. Wish you all the best 👏“
Since the time Azam has proved his worth as a batsman, a lot of comparisons have been drawn between these two. It was refreshing to see players, especially from India and Pakistan, interact humbly.
The 27-year-old batsman was massively applauded for this act by the general public and the media.
Will things become more friendly between the two nations after Response?
From this, it won’t be entirely wrong to see that cricket is truly a gentleman’s game. Everybody enjoys the thrill and excitement of a Pakistan vs India game in ICC tournaments but nobody enjoys the unnecessary trolling and attacks. Players’ behavior can bring a change as the fans are likely to follow it.
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