Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Pakistan Women cricketers have found themselves at the centre of a social-media buzz during the ongoing Women’s Asia Cup, but this time their performances are not the reason. Several members of the Pakistan squad were spotted wearing footwear from one8, the sportswear brand co-founded by Indian cricket star Virat Kohli.
Left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu and right-handed batter Eymaan Fatima were among the players seen wearing the shoes during Pakistan’s match against Hong Kong on Monday. Pictures and videos quickly went viral, with fans highlighting the unusual sight of Pakistan cricketers wearing a brand closely associated with one of India’s biggest sporting icons.
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Sandhu, meanwhile, gave Pakistan plenty to celebrate on the field. She produced a sensational career-best 4-0-7-6, helping Pakistan bowl Hong Kong out for 71 and complete a 72-run victory. Her spell also helped Pakistan seal their place in the Asia Cup semi-finals.
One8 has grown into a high-performance sportswear brand spanning footwear, apparel and sporting products. Agilitas, which brought the brand into its portfolio, describes one8 as a sportswear label co-founded with Kohli. Kohli is also an investor in Agilitas, having invested Rs 40 crore in the platform.
PAKISTAN BOUNCE BACK IN ASIA CUP AFTER INDIA SETBACK
Pakistan had endured a difficult outing against India earlier in the tournament, being bowled out for just 55 before losing by seven wickets. However, they responded strongly against Hong Kong, scoring 143 for eight before Sandhu’s six-wicket haul completed a comprehensive win.
Pakistan finished second in Group A with four points after winning two of their three matches and advanced to the semi-finals, where they are set to face Sri Lanka.
The tournament has also brought disciplinary setbacks for two Pakistan players. Captain Fatima Sana was fined 10 per cent of her match fee and handed one demerit point after making a gesture towards the pavilion following Shafali Verma’s dismissal against India.
A day later, Gull Feroza was also fined 10 per cent of her match fee and given one demerit point for showing dissent after being given out leg-before wicket against Hong Kong. It was her second offence in 24 months.
Amid the disciplinary headlines and Pakistan’s push for the title, the sight of the team wearing Kohli’s one8 shoes has added an unexpected talking point to their Asia Cup campaign.
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
