Cricket matches between India and Pakistan match the intensity of all great sporting rivalries and occasionally transcend them. But while the frenzy drummed across the neighbouring countries often hit jingoist peaks, the camaraderie of players across the divide offers welcome relief to the nationalist brick batting that often surrounds the fixture. Ex-Indian captain Virat Kohli, of course, has been at the forefront of building relations between the two sets of cricketers. After a public exchange of pleasantries with Pakistani batting ace and captain Babar Azam, the de facto ambassador met injured Pakistani pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi.

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Shaheen, out with a knee injury, was sitting on the sidelines with his right leg strapped in a brace. As the Indian squad filed into Dubai’s ICC Academy ahead of their Thursday training session, Virat Kohli veered towards the lanky pacer for a brief chat. Although their exchange was barely audible, the star batter inquired about his injury, wishing him a speedy recovery. Shaheen muttered something along the lines of “aap enjoy karo” (enjoy yourself) to Virat.

The pacer has been advised to rest by medical staff. He is likely to return in time for the T20 World Cup in Australia, something he alluded to in conversation with Kohli. Before Kohli, however, leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal went over to Shaheen. The two seem close, greeting each other warmly, sharing smiles, etc. Inquiring about his health, the leggie walked off, mouthing a friendly “milte hai” (let’s meet) before leaving.

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Afridi was Pakistan’s wrecker-in-chief during their World Cup clash in Dubai, a year ago. Dismissing Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul in the powerplay- near unplayable deliveries both- he nailed another blow with Kohli’s wicket towards the fag end of the Indian innings. Shaheen’s absence will be keenly felt by Babar & Co. in the Asia Cup, just as Jasprit Bumrah’s will be by the Indians. India and Pakistan have been pooled together in the group stages. Expected to qualify for the Super 4, the two duel on Sunday at Dubai’s International Stadium.