ICC Champions Trophy: Azhar Ali wins hearts with message for Kohli and Co; video

Karachi: Pakistan cricketer Azhar Ali won the hearts of the cricket fans as praised Virat Kohli and Co despite their defeat in the ICC Champions Trophy final in London earlier this month at The Oval.

Azhar, alongside fellow opener Fakhar Zaman, played a pivotal role as Pakistan sealed a thumping 180-run win against the Indian cricket team.

While the two nations share a bitter rivalry, post the final the cricketers from the both the countries have shown class and sportsmanship and have not being involved in verbal volleys.

Indian skipper had wholeheartedly praised the Sarfraz Ahmed-led Pakistan side’s performance. Kohli, during the post-match presentation ceremony, had said: "I want to congratulate Pakistan, they had an amazing tournament, the way they turned things around, speak volumes for the talent they have.”

"They proved it again, they can upset anyone on their day, disappointing for us but I have a smile on my face because we played well to reach the final," added the Indian skipper.

In fact, the likes of Yuvraj Singh and Kohli were seen interacting with Shoaib Malik and Azhar Mahmood after the final.

Almost a week after the final, Azhar was asked, what will be his message for the Indian cricket team who were comprehensively beaten.

Azhar said: “I think we should celebrate our success. India were a fantastic team and they played well throughout the tournament.”

Earlier, Azhar had thanked the "legends" MS Dhoni, Kohli and Yuvraj as the Indian trio posed for pictures with Azhar's kids following the ICC Champions Trophy final.