Indian T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has finally shed light on a deeply personal moment witnessed by millions: why he closes his eyes during the national anthem before every cricket match.
India’s players stand for the national anthem (AP Photo)
The national anthem ceremony is always a poignant part of any sports event, often becoming even more special during high-stakes rivalry matches or a player’s debut. For Yadav, this ritual carries profound significance.
During the recent 2025 Asia Cup clash between India and Pakistan, many noticed Yadav with his eyes respectfully closed while ‘Jana Gana Mana’ played.
In a press conference held after India’s win against Oman in the final group stage, Yadav elaborated on his pre-match ritual. Reflecting on his journey, he stated, “The best match for me was when I played my first game for India. 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.”
He further revealed the intimate meaning behind his closed eyes: “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.”
This particular India-Pakistan encounter held extra layers of significance for Suryakumar. Not only did it fall on his birthday, but it also marked his debut as captain against fierce rivals Pakistan. Adding to the gravity of the occasion, it was the first time the two teams had faced each other since the tragic Pahalgam terror attack and escalating border tensions.
Despite intense scrutiny over his actions, including a notable handshake incident, Suryakumar remained laser-focused on his game. He delivered a stellar performance, becoming India’s highest scorer in the second innings and sealing a triumphant seven-wicket victory with a powerful six. This high-pressure match underscored Yadav’s remarkable ability to stay calm and perform exceptionally while leading his country.