"I hope they're not too angry," Kane Williamson was his quintessential unassuming self while enquiring about the heartbroken Indian fans, and wished to "adopt" the Men in Blue's 1.5 billion supporters to back New Zealand in the World Cup final.
A scribe told him that he met angry Indian fans outside the stadium after their semi-final loss and his reply, filled with warmth, could win hearts instantly.
"Yeah, I hope they're not too angry. Obviously, the passion for the game in India is unrivalled and we are all fortunate to play this sport and have a country like India be right behind it and the support that they have for their home team," he said.
Williamson's reply could be termed as safe and diplomatic but it had the conviction to melt hearts.
He is the leader of a team of good boys, the only cricket team that has earned universal love in the fraternity.
But on Saturday, July 14, he will expect that Indian supporters are right behind the 'Black Caps' in their bid to win a maiden world title.
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"Hopefully we can adopt 1.5 billion supporters and they'll be supporting us, what do you reckon," he politely enquired.
Winners have the bragging rights but there was no such thing for Williamson who sympathised with India for paying the price for a fickle format despite consistent show.
"Look, India are a world-class side and the game of cricket is fickle in its nature especially when it comes to the white ball and Twenty20 and one-day cricket. Whether it's a semifinal or final nothing really promises.
"India has got so many world-class players and the depth they have in their team mean they are rightly so ranked No. 1 or No. 2."
"You know, there's obviously a huge amount of respect for India as a cricket side and I certainly hope that their fans are very much behind them and respect that the game of cricket can be a tough one on a number of occasions."
"It's something that's only every four years do you get the opportunity to play in a World Cup, let alone make a final. A special moment."
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