Ten incidents to remind us that Cricket is still a gentleman's game

Nowadays, you don’t see dignified players walking into the pitch applauded by properly dressed gentleman standing on their feet, applauding. You don’t see the generosity or appreciation that are the core morals of this game.

But, there is hope. Here are 10 reasons to remind us that Cricket is still a Gentleman’s sport.

# 10 – Fielders applauding batsman’s achievement

Sachin Tendulkar of India is congratulated by Australian players on his world record breaking run during day one of the Second Test between India and Australia at the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) stadium on October 13, 2008 in Mohali, India. Sachin Tendulkar overtook Brian Lara’s run record of 11,174 Test runs to become the highest Test run scorer in history. (Photo by Global Cricket Ventures/BCCI via Getty Images)

 

It is tough when a batsman hits you all around the park. It is even tough to watch him celebrate. You don’t see footballers congratulating the opponent for scoring a goal no matter how great that goal is. Bu fortunately, that kind of thing happens in Cricket.

Every West Indian congratulated Sehwag when he scored a double hundred against them. Every Australian congratulated Tendulkar when he became the leading run scorer in Test Cricket at Mohali. There are endless number of incidents where the same thing has happened.

After Makhaya Ntini’s last game got over, all Indians on the pitch went on to congratulate him on marking an end to a fantastic career.

# 9 – Brett Lee vs Sachin Tendulkar, 2008 CB Series

Brett Lee had just bowled a nasty beamer at Sachin Tendulkar. Tendulkar managed to avoid damage. Most bowlers wouldn’t have cared but Brett Lee made his way towards Sachin Tendulkar and apologised. He was sorry for bowling that ball.

Tendulkar, being a gentleman, accepted Lee’s apology and things were normal once again.

If not for Lee and Tendulkar, this incident could have become nasty. But in the end, the spirit of the game prevailed.