World Cup History: Three best sportsmanship acts across tournaments
Cricket has always been advertised as the ‘gentleman’s game’ with the sole reason as the players tend to give their every bit on the field but play the game in the best possible spirit. There have been instances in the past when few have got carried away for the sheer passion and the love for the game, crossing a certain boundary that hampers the spirit of the game. However, some have led by example for the rest to follow and play the game in a sporting fashion.
Being a high-intensity sport with no opposition willing to give an inch on the field, players tend to commit acts which at times are not considered in the "Spirit of Cricket." However, no player has the real intention to set a bad example with his actions on the field.
With World Cup being the pinnacle in any sport, players are extra motivated, knowing what is at stake for their respective countries. As a result, they tend to go the extra mile without estimating what impact it might have on the game and the viewers across the world. At the same time, an act in the spirit of the game gets extensively appreciated on the large scale.
Here we take a look at three of the best sportsmanship acts in World Cup history.
#3 Grant Elliott’s sporting act towards Dale Steyn in the 2015 semi-final
In the first semi-final in the World Cup 2015 in a face-off between South Africa and New Zealand, one of the best moments from the match came after the Kiwis secured a win over the Proteas. The star for the home team, Grant Elliott made a wonderful gesture after hitting a winning six to take his team through to the finals.
Requiring 12 off the final over, Elliott hit a six against Dale Steyn on the penultimate delivery to win it for his team. The entire South African team were on the ground, shedding tears. So was Steyn, when Elliott extended his hand to the fast-bowler who was lying on the pitch in despair, to offer him commiserations and a few words of encouragement after the loss. It was one of the better sights, portraying the sportsmanship in a tough and a close game.
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