In a dramatic Asia Cup Super 4s match, Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga and Pakistan’s Abrar Ahmed engaged in a friendly rivalry of mimicking each other’s wicket celebrations. Though tensions seemingly rose during the game, both players shared a warm hug afterward, showing true sportsmanship.The on-field drama began when Abrar first copied Hasaranga’s celebration style after taking a wicket. Hasaranga responded by doing the same when he dismissed Saim Ayub and Pakistan captain Salman Agha. However, the post-match scene showed both players laughing about the incident during handshakes.WATCH: Abrar Ahmed and Wanindu Hasaranga hug it out after Pakistan beat Sri LankaAdditionally, Abrar posted on social media about the incident and the exchange after the match. In an Instagram Story, Abrar wrote, “Great bowler and a great man!” while posing with the Sri Lankan.
Abrar Ahmed’s Instagram Story alongside Wandinu Hasaranga. (Instagram)
The match had bigger implications for Sri Lanka, as their loss meant elimination from the Asia Cup final race. For Pakistan, who recently lost to India, beating Bangladesh in their next game is crucial to stay in contention for the finals.Pakistan’s captain Salman Ali Agha remained positive despite criticism of his team’s inconsistent performance. “I always smile. Can’t say it is a perfect game. We lost four wickets in 3 overs. Apart from that, it was a perfect game,” he said after the match.Salman praised his team’s efforts, particularly highlighting their fielding improvements under coach Shane McDermott, whom they nickname “Rockstar.” He also commended Shaheen’s bowling skills and expressed satisfaction with Talat and Nawaz’s performances.He specifically mentioned Abrar’s reliability in tough situations, saying, “Whenever we are in a difficult situation, I go to him. Hope he can continue like this for many more seasons for Pakistan.”Pakistan’s next challenge is their crucial match against Bangladesh on Thursday, which will determine their fate in the tournament.
