MIsbah-ul-Haq and Robin Uthappa. (Source – Twitter/X)
India Champions and Pakistan Champions squared off in the finals of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2024 on Saturday, July 13.
The match witnessed a beautiful moment of sportsmanship between the two cricket powerhouses as former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Robin Uthappa helped an injured Misbah-ul-Haq off the field, showing the true spirit of cricket.
The WCL 2024, a tournament featuring retired cricket legends, had reached its climax with arch-rivals India and Pakistan facing off in the final. Younis Khan called it correctly at the toss and elected to bat first on a pitch that historically favoured the chasing team.
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As Pakistan’s innings progressed, Misbah injured his leg and was in visible pain. The 50-year-old veteran, who had scored 18 off 15 balls, was forced to retire hurt. It was at this moment that Uthappa, setting aside his wicketkeeping duties, rushed to Misbah’s aid.
Uthappa offered his shoulder to the limping Misbah, helping him off the field. This act of kindness immediately went viral on social media, with fans from both nations lauding Uthappa’s gesture. The official broadcaster, FanCode, shared a clip of the incident, captioning it “Spirit of Cricket.”
Spirit of Cricket moment in Birmingham 🧡#IndvPakonFanCode #WCLonFanCode pic.twitter.com/l3iBarnGwU
— FanCode (@FanCode) July 13, 2024
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The match turned out to be a brilliant encounter. Pakistan, led by Shoaib Malik’s 41 off 36 balls and Sohail Tanvir’s quick 19 off 9, posted a competitive total of 156/6. India’s chase was equally exciting, with Ambati Rayudu scoring a fiery half-century.
The match reached a dramatic conclusion when Yusuf Pathan’s aggressive cameo of 30 off 16 balls tilted it in India’s favour. Irfan Pathan smashed a boundary in the first ball of the final over to seal the game for the Indian side as they won the game by five wickets.