Abrar Ahmed and Wanindu Hasaranga’s Sportsmanship Wins Hearts in Asia Cup 2025

Abu Dhabi, Tuesday, September 23, 2025 – Cricket fans praised Pakistan’s Abrar Ahmed and Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga after the two shared a touching moment of respect at Sheikh Zayed Stadium. The incident came at the end of their Asia Cup 2025 Super Fours clash, where Pakistan sealed a five-wicket win.

From Banter to Brotherhood on the Field

During the match, Abrar Ahmed dismissed Hasaranga and celebrated by copying the Sri Lankan spinner’s famous wicket gesture. Later, Hasaranga removed Pakistan’s Saim Ayub and responded by mimicking Abrar.

What could have been taken as provocation turned into humour. Both players laughed about it and hugged after the match. The video of their light-hearted exchange quickly went viral.

Fans Praise Sportsmanship

Cricket fans flooded social media with praise, calling the moment “the beauty of this sport.” Many highlighted how both spinners showed humility and respect in a high-pressure game. Some users even suggested that other teams, especially India, should learn from this positive example of behaviour on and off the field.

Social Media Debate on India’s Sportsmanship

The comparisons soon turned into criticism of India. Fans recalled that Indian players recently walked away during the toss and after their match against Pakistan, avoiding the traditional handshake. This was seen as disrespectful to cricket’s spirit.

Supporters argued that while Abrar and Hasaranga displayed sportsmanship, India continues to let politics overshadow the game. The incident sparked heated debate online, contrasting Pakistan-Sri Lanka’s camaraderie with India-Pakistan tensions.

Pakistan’s Victory Keeps Final Hopes Alive

Pakistan’s five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka boosted their chances of qualifying for the Asia Cup 2025 final. The Green Shirts will now face Bangladesh in their next Super Fours match on Thursday.