The Pakistan cricket team presented Christmas gifts to Australian cricketers on Monday, sparking a buzz across the internet.
While many appreciated this gesture, there was a surprise from ex-Australian spinner Kerry O’Keefe regarding Pakistan's act of giving presents to the Australian team.
O’Keefe commented that such gestures were uncommon in the past, questioning whether former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly would have done the same for the Australian captain Steve Waugh during that time.
The video, shared by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), displaying the entire visiting team bringing gifts for the Australian cricketers and their families, along with handing out sweets to children during an indoor training session, suggests a positive and friendly interaction between the teams.
O’Keefe's remark that Pakistan must be "feisty" to beat the hosts Down Under might suggest his belief that a competitive and spirited approach is necessary to succeed in Australia, a place renowned for its challenging cricket conditions.
“This Test series is being played in the best of spirits? You’re not going to beat Australia in the best of spirits. Christmas Presents yesterday. Would Sourav Ganguly have arrived with Christmas presents for Steve Waugh? No.”
“You’ve got to play feisty against the Aussies. You have to have some spite. This is too pleasant. And then opening the Boxing Day with a half-volley.”
It must be noted that the second Test between Pakistan and Australia started today where only 66 overs were bowled. Australia reached 187-3 at stumps on the opening day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The play resumed after a nearly three-hour-long rain delay. The match was interrupted due to rain during the second session on the first day.
Marnus Labuschagne (44) and Travis Head (9) will resume batting for the home side on the second day.
Aamer Jamal claimed the prized scalp of Steve Smith, who scored 26 runs, after the rain delay.
Agha Salman and Hasan Ali bagged one wicket each.
