Virat Kohli’s heartfelt gesture of gifting an autographed bat to Shakib Al Hasan after the Kanpur Test honored the Bangladesh all-rounder’s remarkable career and symbolized mutual respect between two cricketing greats.
New Delhi: Indian superstar batter Virat Kohli conjured a special moment post the Kanpur Test as he presented Bangladesh’s veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan with an autographed bat in regard to his terrific career. This one gesture was made after what could be Shakib’s last Test for the side. Kohli was showing respect towards Shakib’s huge contribution to the game-the respect between two legends.
Shakib Al Hasan had already indicated that this could well be his last Test, at least for the longest format of the game, as he might be left out for Bangladesh’s home Test matches following this. So, there was something of emotional value to that situation. After the post-match ceremony, where India basked in the glory of winning the series, Virat Kohli was seen discussing a very heart-to-heart matter with Shakib. The moment was further sweetened when Kohli gifted him a signed bat-a memorable gesture of respect and admiration.
Virat Kohli gave his signed bat to Shakib Al Hasan.
– Picture of the day! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/mJKSDk6gnR
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) October 1, 2024
India won the series 2-0 with an emphatic seven-wicket victory in the second Test on October 1. For a man who produced the big knock in the first innings of the Kanpur Test, his four for 78 being perhaps his best display in the two Tests, Shakib Al Hasan had an otherwise subdued series. It isn’t much to go by during his lacklustre display as a batsman and bowler across the two Tests that Shakib has had career achievements in Test cricket that nobody will question.
If this does turn out to be Shakib Al Hasan’s final Test, his legacy is firmly cemented in cricket history. Amassing 4609 runs and taking 246 wickets in 71 Test matches, Shakib stands as one of Bangladesh’s greatest cricketers. His exceptional all-round abilities have made him a legendary figure, admired not just in Bangladesh but across the global cricketing fraternity.
Kohli’s gesture underscored the camaraderie and deep mutual respect that goes beyond the boundaries of competitive rivalries. It served as a fitting tribute to Shakib’s illustrious Test career, celebrating the accomplishments of a player who has left an enduring legacy in the world of cricket.