[Watch] When Virat Kohli Upheld Spirit Of Cricket By Helping Out A Cramping Joe Root
Virat Kohli helping out Joe Root (BCCI)
Virat Kohli’s aggressive aura on the field serves as a potent testament to his indomitable spirit and unyielding determination. While his antagonistic demeanour is a prominent aspect of his cricketing persona, the legendary batter has also exhibited moments of remarkable sportsmanship, proving that his passion for the game is coupled with a deep respect for its traditions and values.
One such moment occurred during a 2021 home Test match against the visiting English troops in Chennai when Kohli helped out a hampering Joe Root late on Day 1.
When Virat Kohli helped out Joe Root
England, under Joe Root, toured India for a four-match Test series in February 2021. The tour commenced with the first Test match under extreme Chennai heat, where the English skipper won the toss and decided to keep Indians on the field throughout the opening day.
Root, batting at number four, himself arrived to the crease at the brink of their lunch break and went on to chart an imperial ton by stumps. However, the cricketer struggled with some cramps late in the day as he limped his way to lay down on the ground.
Virat Kohli, stationed nearby at the field, approached Root and decided to help out his rival skipper with a muscle-relaxing stretch.
Watch: Virat Kohli helps Joe Root overcome cramps
Root went on to frustrate the Indians the following day to slap a scintillating double ton in the first innings.
Virat Kohli registered a fighting 72 in India’s second innings, however, his side crumbled under their run-chase pressure to fall 227 runs short of the Englishmen.
Regardless of the outcome, the charismatic Indian captain won over hearts and respects from across the cricketing fraternity for his sporting gesture towards Root.
 "Aakash Saini")
