NOTTINGHAM — Cricket enthusiasts witnessed an uplifting sight during Monday’s County Championship fixture when Pakistan pacer Mohammad Abbas and India’s wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan, representing Nottinghamshire, celebrated a wicket together in exemplary fashion.
A video clip capturing their spontaneous handshake and hug following a dismissal has since gone viral, receiving widespread appreciation from supporters in both countries. Such camaraderie is a reminder of how county cricket continues to foster sportsmanship and unity, transcending traditional rivalries.
The pair’s partnership for Nottinghamshire this season has become a talking point, particularly after the county’s official social media channels shared the now-famous celebration clip. Comments poured in celebrating the display of mutual respect and team spirit.
Khawaja Naeem Akbar aptly described the scene, saying, “This is the true beauty of county cricket,” while another fan, Sultan Afridi, remarked that it was “a special moment for both Pakistan and India.”
On the field, Kishan delivered an impressive performance with the bat, registering a quick-fire 87 runs off 98 deliveries, decorated with one six and twelve fours. Abbas, meanwhile, maintained his reputation for discipline with the ball, conceding only 19 runs in 10 overs and securing a wicket along with four maiden overs.
Such moments are not entirely new to county cricket. In recent seasons, players like Cheteshwar Pujara and Mohammad Rizwan have also represented Sussex together, highlighting the tournament’s role in bringing together talent from the subcontinent.
More collaborations of this nature are expected in the coming weeks: India’s Ruturaj Gaikwad is set to join Yorkshire next month, while Pakistan’s Abdullah Shafique is awaiting clearance to participate once visa formalities conclude.