Five instances when Virat Kohli showed heartfelt gestures for opposition players on cricket field

Indian batter Virat Kohli has often showed heartfelt gestures for opposition players on the field.

In the competitive sport of cricket, where teams compete fiercely, Virat Kohli is known for being a good sport. Besides being a great player, Kohli always shows genuine respect for the game and other players. His actions, friendly gestures and praising opponents, highlights another side of him on cricket field.

There are many moments when Virat Kohli showed sportsmanship and set a good example for everyone in cricket. By recognizing and appreciating the efforts of other teams, he not only makes the game more enjoyable but also encourages a friendly atmosphere even during tough competition. Kohli’s behaviour goes beyond just personal success, making him someone to look up to for fair play and good sportsmanship spirit in cricket.

Let’s delve into the five instances when Virat Kohli showed heartfelt gestures for opposition players on cricket field.

5. Virat Kohli’s heartwarming tribute to Dean Elgar after his last test innings

After Dean Elgar was dismissed for 12 runs in his final test innings of his career, Virat Kohli displayed a heart-warming gesture. Instead of celebrating, he hugged South Africa stand in captain and urged Indian team not to celebrate on his dismissal. Kohli even bowed down as a mark of respect for the 36-year-old cricketer.

Following the wicket, Kohli initially celebrated with a flying kiss to the fans but quickly shifted his focus towards honouring Elgar’s career. He encouraged the fans to join him in paying tribute, hugged Elgar warmly, and was later joined by other team India players, including captain Rohit Sharma, in congratulating Elgar on his remarkable career for South Africa.

4. Virat Kohli asks English fans to clap for Steve Smith instead of booing him

During the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 match between India and Australia, Virat Kohli showed sportsmanship by asking Indian fans to cheer for Steve Smith. Smith, who had faced criticism for ball-tampering, was being booed by fans in England. In response, Kohli, while batting, gestured to fans to clap for Smith instead of booing Aussie cricketer, and asked for respect on the field.

Virat Kohli even won ICC Spirit Of Cricket Award of the Year 2019 for his kind gesture towards Steve Smith. He was even nominated for ICC Spirit of Cricket Award for the Decade 2010-2020, but lost it to former Indian skipper MS Dhoni.

3. Virat Kohli asks Delhi crowd to not boo Naveen-ul-Haq in India vs Afghanistan CWC 2023 clash

Virat Kohli made cricket fans happy worldwide when he hugged Naveen-Ul Haq during India-Afghanistan game in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, despite their previous arguments. This match was the first time they faced each other since a heated exchange in IPL 2023. The disagreement continued, and Naveen faced criticism and chants during IPL and World Cup. During the game, Kohli patched things up with Naveen, asked the crowd in Delhi to stop making fun of him, and showed good sportsmanship.

2. Virat Kohli hugs Mohammad Rizwan after 10-wicket loss

The cricket rivalry between India and Pakistan is known for its intensity, capturing global attention whenever the two teams face each other. In a historic ICC T20 World Cup match in 2021, where Pakistan emerged victorious by defeating India for the first time in World Cup history. Despite the disappointment of losing by 10 wickets, Virat Kohli displayed exceptional sportsmanship by embracing Pakistan’s Mohammed Rizwan amid the crowd’s celebration. This gesture highlighted the possibility of mutual respect and friendship in cricket, transcending national boundaries and fierce competition.

⁠1. Virat Kohli checks on Wahab Riaz after his fall:

ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 featured a highly anticipated clash between India and Pakistan, with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma leading India to an incredible victory. Despite the intense rivalry, India’s perfect record against Pakistan in World Cups continued. In a heart-warming display of sportsmanship, during a crucial moment, Pakistani bowler Wahab Riaz slipped during one of his deliveries. Virat Kohli, showing compassion beyond the competition, approached Riaz to check on him, offering a comforting hand on his back.

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