WATCH: Virat Kohli and Naveen-ul-Haq hug each other putting differences aside during India vs Afghanistan ODI World Cup clash

The 9th match of the ODI World Cup 2023 marked the long-anticipated moment as Virat Kohli and Naveen-ul-Haq faced each other for the first time since IPL 2023 where they were involved in an ugly verbal spat. India and Afghanistan clashed against each other at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on October 11.

However, this time the cricketing world witnessed a touching moment during the contest as Kohli and Naveen put their differences aside and shared a warm embrace. The encounter was not just about bat and ball, it was a story of reconciliation on the grand stage of international cricket. 

Watch the video here:

As soon as the moment was captured both the players started getting trended on social media and the video also went viral in no time. The two players, who had their share of on-field clashes earlier this year in IPL, displayed maturity and grace as they came together with a hug, sending a powerful message of unity and friendship. This spontaneous act spoke volumes about the spirit of the game, reminding fans that cricket is not just a sport but a platform to foster sportsmanship and mutual respect.

Naveen has to go back to the Virat Kohli pavilion: Ravi Shastri

Former Indian cricket team coach Ravi Shastri also talked about the moment and said that the gesture shown by both players was very good as the crowd loved it. However, he also took a jibe at Naveen by saying that whatever happens the bowler has to go back to Kohli.

“An interesting development took place when Rohit Sharma was dismissed and Shreyas Iyer was coming out. This is what happened. Naveen-ul-Haq, and Virat Kohli shaking hands with each other. And this is good. The crowd loved it. You might have your things to say in the heat of the moment, but this is absolutely great to see. Whatever happens, Naveen has to go back to the Virat Kohli pavilion” Shastri was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.