The build-up to the recent India-Pakistan Asia Cup encounter was far from ordinary. Calls for boycotts, sparked by the Pahalgam terror attack, and post-match discussions revolving around handshakes, created an intensely charged atmosphere. For cricketers, navigating this level of external pressure and treating such a game as ‘just another match’ is an incredibly difficult feat.
However, leading into the high-stakes Super Four clash against their arch-rivals, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav maintained a remarkable sense of calm. With his characteristic humor and ability to ease tension, the 35-year-old offered insight into how his players cope with the surrounding commotion.
“The best thing to do?” he jokingly told the media, “Close your room, switch off your phone, and get some sleep.” He quickly acknowledged the practical challenges. “It sounds simple, but it’s hard because you often interact with friends, and many players enjoy following all the news. But ultimately, it’s about what you choose to let into your mind. I’ve made it very clear to all the boys: if we want to perform well in this tournament, we absolutely must filter out a lot of the external noise. I’m not suggesting we ignore it completely, but rather, we absorb only what is beneficial for us.”
Considering India’s recent dominant run against Pakistan, some observers have pondered if the unique thrill of this historic rivalry has faded. Suryakumar shared his perspective, saying, “I can’t comment on past eras; I wasn’t involved then. But once we step onto a packed stadium, I remind my team that it’s time for entertainment. Let’s play an exciting brand of cricket. We don’t focus on much else. We’ve played three games, and winning this one brought just as much joy as our other victories.”