The viral embrace between cricket icons Rohit Sharma and Wasim Akram provided a stark contrast to the frostiness that has defined on-field protocol between India and Pakistan. The former India captain, present as ICC Men's T20 World Cup brand ambassador, exchanged smiles and embraces with players before Sunday's high-voltage clash.
The gesture came as India maintained their no-handshake policy with Pakistan, with skipper Suryakumar Yadav refraining from the customary greeting at the toss. Despite the diplomatic tensions, Rohit and Akram's interaction offered a reminder of respect between players across borders, before India went on to defeat Pakistan by 61 runs in their Group A encounter.