Virat Kohli once again won hearts, with a gesture that showcased the true spirit of cricket during the India-Pakistan clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. During Pakistan’s innings, a ‘Spirit Of Cricket’ moment unfolded when Naseem Shah, standing at the non-striker’s end, requested Kohli to tie his shoelaces. Without hesitation, the former India captain obliged, creating a heartwarming scene that instantly went viral.
True sportsmanship knows no boundaries. Virat Kohli helping a Pakistani player with his shoelace is a perfect example of respect, kindness, and the spirit of the game. Moments like these remind us that beyond rivalry, there’s humanity. @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/f64gcCvbxB
— Muzamil Bhatt (@MuzamilSpeaks_) February 23, 2025
Kohli's gesature were lauded by fans on social media
कोहली अपना कोहिनूर है...
— Kavish Aziz (@azizkavish) February 23, 2025
पाकिस्तानी क्रिकेटर के जूते का फीता खुल गया था, कोहली ने बैठ कर फीता बांध दिया pic.twitter.com/3Qb79X5KF3
Spirit of cricket ❤️
— Momina (@IamMomina_19) February 23, 2025
Virat Kohli x Naseem Shah #PAKvIND #ChampionsTrophy pic.twitter.com/TbhFzxyRUd
Spirit of cricket! We are brothers. So good to see Virat Kohli & Naseem Shah ❤️ #ChampionsTrophy2025#PAKvIND pic.twitter.com/zjvkK39Kh5
— Muhammad Zaid (@iammalickzayd) February 23, 2025
Kohli achieves historic milestone
Kohli took a stunning catch to surpass Mohammad Azharuddin's record for the most catches by an Indian fielder in One-Day Internationals (ODIs).
Azharuddin, a former Indian captain and one of the greatest fielders in the country's cricket history, held the record for most catches by an Indian fielder in ODIs with 156 catches. However, Kohli's incredible athleticism and safe pair of hands have enabled him to go past Azharuddin's record, with the 35-year-old now having 157 catches in ODIs.
India on top against Pakistan
Despite losing Rohit Sharma early, Team India 's innings has been a smooth ride so far. Shubman Gill is completely dominating the Pakistan bowlers. His aggressive approach against Shaheen Afridi quickly overshadowed the disappointment of Rohit Sharma’s dismissal. Pakistan had a golden opportunity to send Gill back when he mistimed a shot straight to Khushdil Shah at mid-wicket, but Shah made a complete mess of the catch.
The reaction from the Pakistan camp said it all—Shaheen Afridi buried his face in frustration, Haris Rauf held his head in disbelief, and Mohammad Rizwan was stunned. Meanwhile, India continues to build momentum with Gill and Virat Kohli Putting on an unbeaten stand of 58 runs so far.