AFP
Kolkata
India's Virat Kohli gifted comeback Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir one of his bats Friday, a gesture that grabbed attention ahead of the mouthwatering World T20 clash between the arch rivals.
The star Indian batsman took the bowler by surprise as he handed over the prized bat to Amir during a pre-match practice session at the Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata. The 23-year-old pacer has had to face stiff resistance from many quarters including his own teammates after serving a prison term and a five-year ban for spot-fixing in a Test match against England at Lord's in 2010.
Kohli, 27, has however openly welcomed Amir's return to the international fold. "He is a very skilful bowler and I wish him all the best. He has worked hard to come this far and it takes a lot of courage," Kohli had said ahead of the Asia Cup in Bangladesh.
Kohli, a firebrand batsman known to wear his heart on the sleeves, appeared cheerful Friday while having an animated chat with Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi.
