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5 Unforgettable Moments In Cricket That Prove The Spirit Of The Game Still Exists

Rajgeeta Yadav

Kohli steps in as fans boo Smith [Source: Screengrab, ICC /X.com]Kohli steps in as fans boo Smith [Source: Screengrab, ICC /X.com]

Cricket is often called a gentleman’s game and some moments truly prove why. It is not always about winning at any cost; sometimes, it’s about respect, fairness and kindness. Over the years, there have been several examples where cricketers put sportsmanship above rivalry. 

Recently, we saw one such moment in the Asia Cup 2025, when India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav decided to withdraw an appeal against UAE batter Junaid Siddique.

It happened in the 13th over of the game, when Shivam Dube bowled a bouncer and the batter backed away. As Sanju Samson threw down the stumps, it looked like Siddique was clearly out. However, the batter pointed out that Dube’s towel had fallen during the run-up, which could have distracted him. Even though the umpire referred it upstairs, Suryakumar chose to take the appeal back. 

This not only gave Siddique another chance but also showed the world that cricket is about fairness as much as competition.

Now, this moment is not the first of its kind. In fact, cricket’s history has many such examples where players put the spirit of the game above personal or team advantage. So, let’s look at five memorable instances where the “spirit of the game” shone brighter than the scoreboard.

1. Virat Kohli Backs Steve Smith

During the 2019 World Cup, Indian fans were booing Australian star Steve Smith because of the ball-tampering scandal he was involved in earlier. Instead of letting it continue, Virat Kohli, who is known for his aggressive nature on the field, did something unexpected. He turned to the crowd and asked them to cheer for Smith instead. This simple act of respect showed that even fierce competitors can stand up for one another.

2. Adam Gilchrist walks despite being given not out

In 2003 World Cup semi-final against Sri Lanka, Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist was given not out by the umpire. However, he knew he had nicked the ball, so he walked off on his own. At such a crucial stage of a World Cup, no one would have blamed him for staying, but Gilchrist chose honesty over advantage. His decision surprised everyone and remains one of cricket’s most talked-about fair play moments.

3. MS Dhoni Recalls Ian Bell

In a 2011 Test match between India and England at Nottingham, Ian Bell was controversially given run out just before the tea break. While it was within the rules, it didn’t feel right to many. After the break, India captain MS Dhoni decided to withdraw the appeal, allowing Bell to continue his innings. The decision won Dhoni respect worldwide, as it proved fairness meant more than taking an easy wicket.

4. Sachin Tendulkar Accepts Brett Lee’s Apology

India Legend Sachin Tendulkar was once struck hard by a dangerous beamer from Australian fast bowler Brett Lee. Instead of reacting angrily, Sachin calmly accepted Lee’s apology, knowing it was unintentional. This showed his humility and why he’s admired not just for his records, but also for his character.

5. New Zealand U-19 Players Help Injured Opponent

During the 2020 U-19 World Cup, West Indies batsman Kirk McKenzie suffered severe cramps and struggled to walk. After he got out, two New Zealand players, Jesse Tashkoff and Joey Field, carried him off the field. The crowd applauded as the young Kiwis reminded everyone that compassion is greater than competition.