National anthem recitation before a sporting match always makes up for some surreal moments. Usually, it’s a formality; however, there are some days, a big match between rivals, or some young hard-working player’s debut, that it hits different. It’s no surprise so many cry during it, and for those sitting at home, the buildup feels complete when you have to stand up, feeling united with the 11 going out to play for the country.
In the recent India-Pakistan clash in the 2025 Asia Cup, the Men in Blue’s skipper Suryakumar Yadav stood out during the national anthem. He wasn’t crying, but his eyes were closed shut as he recited the Jana Gana Mana. On Friday, after India’s win over Oman in the last group stage encounter, he was asked whether the Indo-Pak
clash was the favorite of his career, and Suryakumar’s reply was telling of his love for the country.
“The best match for me was when I played my first game for India,” the Mumbaikar said. “And after that, all the matches I played for India, whenever I took the field, wearing the jersey has always been a proud moment for me. I am always excited, I am always proud to be part of this wonderful campaign, and I will always be proud. If you have seen, I always keep my eyes closed in the National Anthem. I keep thinking about it. I keep remembering it. I keep thanking God for giving me this opportunity to play as long as I can. I am very happy,” he added.
It was an emotionally charged game for Suryakumar for a lot of reasons. It was his birthday and his first match against the rivals as the captain. Moreover, it was also the first time the teams had been playing against each other since the Pahalgam terror attack and the ensuing cross-border tensions.
Every action of his was to be micro-analysed. The handshake controversy took centre stage but more importantly, Suryakumar let his bat do the talking, scoring the most runs for India in the second innings and sealing his team’s seven-wicket win with a big six.
