In preparation for the highly anticipated Asia Cup 2023 match between India and Pakistan, an intriguing encounter unfolded during practice. Cricket enthusiasts are abuzz with excitement as this significant clash draws near.
The day before this momentous showdown, both teams converged on the practice field, where Indian and Pakistani players engaged in a remarkable exchange, captured on video.
The footage, now circulating on social media, portrays an extraordinary interaction between Virat Kohli and Haris Rauf, among other players. It showcases not only handshakes but also warm embraces and heartfelt conversations between these cricketers.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) generously shared this video, shedding light on the encounters between players from rival nations. It provides a unique opportunity to eavesdrop on the dialogue exchanged between Virat Kohli and Haris Rauf, as well as Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam.
While the fervor of fans from both countries may seem intense in the lead-up to the match, there is a distinct transformation when Indian and Pakistani players meet on the field.
Their camaraderie is truly exceptional, transcending the boundaries of cricket. They engage in cordial conversations and explore a range of topics beyond the cricketing arena.
On the day preceding the match, which fell on September 1st, both teams engaged in simultaneous practice sessions at the Pallekele Stadium in Kandy.
During this meticulous practice, players from both sides meticulously assessed their preparations and rectified any deficiencies. Despite their unwavering focus, the practice session was temporarily interrupted by a light drizzle.
Notably, Virat Kohli, the luminary of Team India, indulged in an extended batting session in the nets. Before donning his cricketing persona, he shared a warm handshake with Pakistan’s fiery fast bowler, Haris Rauf, followed by a heartfelt embrace.
Their exchange marked their first meeting since the T20 World Cup clash last year in Melbourne. In a memorable moment, Kohli dispatched two consecutive sixes off Rauf in the 19th over, securing a thrilling victory for Team India.
Kohli’s infectious enthusiasm extended to interactions with other Pakistani players. He engaged in lively discussions with Pakistan’s spin all-rounder, Shadab Khan, sharing laughter and light-hearted banter. Haris Rauf also remained part of these conversations.
Furthermore, Shaheen Shah Afridi joined the gathering, and Kohli initiated a dialogue with the trio. Notably, he even borrowed Shadab’s bat and indulged in a playful shadow batting session.
As the stage is set for the India vs. Pakistan clash, cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the showdown. The teams have finalized their lineups for the match:
Team India for asia cup 2023:
- Captain: Rohit Sharma
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul
- Shubman Gill
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Tilak Verma
- Ishan Kishan
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Akshar Patel
- Shardul Thakur
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammad Shami
- Mohammad Siraj
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Hirshan Krishna
- Sanju Samson
Pakistan Playing XI for IND vs PAK match:
- Captain: Babar Azam
- Vice-Captain: Shadab Khan
- Fakhar Zaman
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Salman Agha
- Iftikhar Ahmed
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Naseem Shah
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Haris Rauf
The impending match promises a riveting contest between these two cricketing powerhouses, with fans eagerly awaiting the outcome.