• Shadab Khan was seen tying Hardik Pandya's shoelaces in a heartwarming gesture during Asia Cup 2023.

  • The match between India and Pakistan was abandoned due to rain.

‘True spirit of cricket’: Netizens laud Shadab Khan’s gesture of tying Hardik Pandya’s shoelaces during IND vs PAK clash in Asia Cup 2023
Shadab Khan tying Hardik Pandya's shoelaces (Image Source: Twitter)

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Often dubbed the ‘gentleman’s game,’ cricket is not just about fierce rivalries and intense competition. It is also about camaraderie, sportsmanship, and the ability to transcend borders. One such heartwarming incident unfolded during the highly anticipated clash between India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023, where Shadab Khan‘s gesture of tying Hardik Pandya‘s shoelaces left a lasting impression and won hearts worldwide.

India-Pakistan rivalry and the battle on the field

The India-Pakistan rivalry is one of the most intense and passionate in the world of cricket. Every time these two cricketing giants face off, it’s not just a game but a spectacle and a clash of titans that transcends boundaries. The Asia Cup 2023 encounter between these two arch-rivals was no different, and fans around the globe eagerly anticipated the showdown.

However, fate had other plans, as the match was marred by frequent rain delays, making it a stop-and-start affair until it was finally abandoned. Despite the weather disruptions, both teams exhibited their skill and determination. Shaheen Afridi shined for Pakistan, taking four crucial wickets for just 35 runs, putting India on the back foot.

Also READ: Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli? Shaheen Afridi lists out his favourite wicket in IND-PAK clash

The Pandya-Kishan Rescue Act

With India suffering early dismissals, the team found itself in a precarious situation. It was at this juncture that Pandya, known for his swashbuckling batting, stepped up to the plate. Teaming up with young talent Ishan Kishan, Pandya showcased his grit and determination, bailing India out of danger. Pandya’s contribution of 87 runs from 90 balls was nothing short of extraordinary, while Kishan’s brilliant 82 runs from 81 deliveries added to the spectacle.

Shadab Khan’s heartwarming gesture towards Hardik Pandya

While the cricketing action was gripping and had fans on the edge of their seats, what truly captured the essence of the game was Shadab’s heartwarming gesture in the midst of the high-stakes battle where he was seen crouching down to tie Pandya’s shoelaces. The small act of kindness from Shadab soon went viral over the internet, and fans termed the Pakistan cricketer’s gesture as the ‘True spirit of cricket’.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Sunil Gavaskar explains why India might have to look beyond KL Rahul in ODI World Cup 2023

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About the Author:
VISHWANATH HARIHARAN
Vishwanath Hariharan is Content Strategist at CricketTimes.com. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. From breaking news stories to in-depth features and opinion pieces, he has covered a wide range of topics. Vishwanath is very fond of watching cricket. Like many others, he too grew up watching, playing, and imitating his favourite players of the game. MS Dhoni is like a demigod to him. You can connect with him at vishwanath.hariharan@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter & Linkedin.