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Xtra Time Web Desk: There was a special moment during the ICC World Cup 2023 match between India and Afghanistan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday. Team India’s star batter Virat Kohli shared a warm hug with Afghanistan fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq, putting aside their previous heated exchange in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The two cricketers had engaged in a verbal spat during an IPL match earlier in the year.

Naveen was subject to barracking from the Delhi crowds as they shouted “Kohli, Kohli” at him. It started when he came on to bat and also during the Afghanistan fielding. The decibel increased when Naveen came to bowl against Virat. It was at this moment Kohli was seen signalling the crowds to stop chanting at Naveen. Moments later Kohli also hugged the Afghan pacer and shook hands.

Later after the game Naveen said Virat is a nice man and a great player. They shook hands and dusted off what happened in the IPL.

The situation escalated, leading to a confrontation between the players during post-match handshakes. The incident resulted in hefty fines for both Kohli and Gautam Gambhir, the mentor of the Lucknow-based franchise. Naveen claimed that Kohli initiated the argument, stating that he had not sledged anyone during the match.

Despite their past differences, the video of the warm hug between Kohli and Naveen went viral on the internet, with fans appreciating their sportsmanlike behaviour. Naveen had previously announced his retirement from ODIs after the World Cup in India, marking a significant moment in his cricket career. This reconciliation between the two players serves as a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship and the ability to put aside differences on the cricket field.