It may have been their wedding day but for one Pakistani couple cricket was on their minds as they shared a fan message to the ICC.
"As a die-hard cricket fan, I wanted to submit a photo from my wedding," wrote US-based Hasan Tasleem.
"As we came home (around midnight in Detroit, Michigan, USA) the Pakistan vs Australia T20 game was underway ... even though it was my wedding night, I was not going to miss the game.”
In response, the ICC shared the couple’s message on social media with the hashtag #CoupleGoals.
Australia’s T20 Captain Aaron Finch responded to their message, saying “Haha glad I played such a special part in your day!! 😂😂” tagging his wife, Amy Finch too.
The groom Hasan Tasleem has thanked both the ICC and the Australian captain for the response.
"The support & openness shown by the game’s governing body (ICC) and the Australian team captain is great for a fan and a cricket lover on an occasion like this has been great."
Australian Pakistani community member Ali Haider said that although Pakistan lost the match it was good to hear such stories of connection between the two cultures.
US-based Pakistani couple Mr and Mrs Tasleem Source: Supplied
“Cricket unites Pakistan and Australia in so many ways. This story is remarkable and shows how much Pakistanis love cricket. But even I would think twice of doing something like this at my wedding night," he said.
"The couple shared their love for cricket on a special day.
Congratulations to them and a big thank you to Australia’s T20 captain Aaron Finch for responding to the couple and making their day (night).
Australia's Aaron Finch during the T20 International cricket match between Australia and Pakistanin Canberra, Tuesday, Nov 5, 2019. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas) Source: AAP
Batsman Steve Smith scored an unbeaten 80 runs.
Next year's ICC T20 World Cup will be played in Australia from 18 October to 15 November 2020. The final will be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Pakistan's players look on during the T20 International cricket match between Australia and Pakistan at Manuka Oval in Canberra, Tuesday, November 5, 2019. Source: AAP
The Women's T20 World Cup will also be held in Australia in February 2020.
