Indian side trashed Australian bowling attack to nook and corner of the stadium as they posted a score of 352/5 on the board. The top order did the formalities needed and the required support in the form of Pandya and Dhoni made sure to accelerate the scoreboard to a competitive total. Dhawan notched up his 8th century in ICC tournaments after a disappointing inning against Southafrica.
After a good opening stand by Hitman and Gabbar, Virat Kohli made sure to support the other end thus bringing a half-century of the fifties in limited overs internationals. His knock of 82 included four boundaries and two huge sixes. What deserves attention here is the gesture of humanity shown by Virat on the field for the crowds” inappropriate actions.
Steve Smith, who was standing on the boundary lines during the fielding was booed “cheater” by the Indian crowds who were present in huge numbers. Virat Kohli, who was batting then at the creased gestured the crowd to clap towards Smith and not to abuse him anymore. After the over, Smith walked towards the Indian skipper and thanked him for his kindful act.
This act was also appreciated by former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly in the commentary box who termed this as a “splendid act of sportsmanship”. It is to be noted that David Warner and Steve Smith were banned for a year for their involvement in the ball tampering scandal against Southafrica last year. This tournament is their first International appearance after serving their bans and they were booed by crowds in the previous matches.
Wow. How good is this from Virat Kohli? Steve Smith is sent to field on the boundary, and immediately cops the most hideous boos from the Indian fans. So Kohli turns to that stand and gestures for them to clap Smith. #CWC19 pic.twitter.com/GBTPaolOXh
— Sam Landsberger (@SamLandsberger) June 9, 2019
Nonetheless, Steve Smith played a gem of an innings again thus registering his second consecutive half-century of the tournament. His 69 off 70 delivered stabilized the Australian innings today on their way to a huge chase.
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With India fans giving Steve Smith a tough time fielding in the deep, @imVkohli suggested they applaud the Australian instead.
Absolute class 👏 #SpiritOfCricket #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/mmkLoedxjr
— ICC (@ICC) June 9, 2019
