Kanpur: Indian batting superstar Virat Kohli gifted one of his signed bats to the soon-to-be retired Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan after the home side completed a 2-0 Test series sweep over the visitors here on Tuesday.
Shakib, who played his last overseas Test here, has already made it clear that he wouldn’t play the home series against South Africa unless the current caretaker government in Bangladesh can assure his smooth passage out of the country.
After the second Test ended here with India winning by seven wickets, Kohli was seen walking towards the Bangladesh team and handing over his bat to Bangladesh’s greatest ever cricketer.
Ahead of the Kanpur Test, Shakib Al Hasan had hinted that the second Test against India might be his last in the longest format, as he may not be selected for Bangladesh’s home Test matches.
This revelation added emotional weight to the occasion. After the post-match presentation, where India celebrated their series victory, Kohli was seen having a warm conversation with Shakib, followed by the special exchange of the bat, marking a memorable moment.
Kohli’s gesture highlighted the camaraderie and mutual respect that transcends competitive rivalries. It was a fitting tribute to Shakib’s decorated Test career, celebrating the achievements of a player who has left an indelible mark on the game.
