Cricket, known for its noble and gentlemanly conduct, has witnessed several incidents that exemplify the spirit of fair play, sportsmanship, and camaraderie.
Here are five such remarkable incidents that showcase cricket's true essence as a gentleman's game. The cricket betting sites have odds with them for all the cricket matches and leagues.
Ian Bell recalled by MS Dhoni
In a Test match between India and England in 2011, MS Dhoni exemplified the gentleman's spirit when he chose to recall Ian Bell to the crease. Bell had mistakenly assumed he was run out and left the field during the tea break, but the bails were never officially dislodged. Dhoni, displaying immense sportsmanship and respect for the game, decided to give Bell another chance to continue his innings. This act of goodwill from the Indian captain won hearts worldwide, emphasizing that cricket is about upholding the values of fairness and sportsmanship.
Nepal keeper refuses to run out opposition batsman
In a 2018 ICC World Cricket League match between Nepal and Oman, Nepal wicket-keeper Binod Bhandari refused to run out Oman batsman Zeeshan Maqsood. Maqsood had hit the ball to the boundary, but Bhandari saw that Maqsood had not actually reached the crease. Bhandari could have easily appealed for a run-out, but he chose not to.
Bhandari's gesture was praised by everyone involved in the match. The Oman team captain said that Bhandari had shown “true sportsmanship,” and the ICC awarded Bhandari the Spirit of Cricket Award for his actions.
Jos Buttler returns the ball to Pakistan batsman
In a thrilling Test match between England and Pakistan in 2017, an extraordinary display of sportsmanship left spectators in awe and emotions running high. England's fielder, Jos Buttler, found himself at the center of this heartwarming incident when he returned the ball to Pakistan's Azhar Ali after Ali had smashed it into the roaring crowd. What made this moment exceptional was that Azhar Ali hadn't even asked for the ball back, yet Buttler, driven by an innate sense of fairness, felt compelled to do what he believed was right.
Buttler's gesture was praised by everyone involved in the match. The Pakistan team captain said that Buttler had shown “great sportsmanship,” and the ICC awarded Buttler the Spirit of Cricket Award for his actions.
David Warner ties Hardik Pandya's shoelaces
In a 2019 ODI match between India and Australia, Hardik Pandya's shoelaces came undone. David Warner, the Australian opener, saw this and came over to help him tie them. After Warner had finished, Pandya extended his arm for a fist bump. Warner reciprocated the gesture, and the two players then went back to their respective positions.
This incident was a heartwarming reminder that cricket is more than just a game. It is also a sport that is played with respect and sportsmanship. Warner and Pandya's gesture showed that they were both gentlemen of the game, and it set a good example for future cricketers.
Rahul Dravid's Walk of Honesty (2003)
In a Test match between India and Australia in Adelaide in 2003, Rahul Dravid set an unforgettable example of honesty and integrity. As he edged a delivery from Jason Gillespie, the Australian fielders appealed for a catch. Although the umpire ruled not out, replays showed that Dravid had indeed edged the ball. Despite the reprieve, Dravid walked back to the pavilion, accepting the decision of his dismissal. This act of selflessness and honesty highlighted the essence of sportsmanship, reminding players and fans alike that winning at any cost is not the true essence of cricket.
