Dubai: In the sweltering desert heat, where humidity clings to the air and anticipation hangs thick, Suryakumar Yadav sits at the press conference table, exuding a calm that belies the storm brewing around Sunday’s India-Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup Super 4s. The Indian captain, with his trademark nonchalance, is less a man caught in the frenzy of cricket’s fiercest rivalry and more a maestro orchestrating his team’s focus amid the chaos. India’s campaign thus far was a masterclass in dominance, with three wins in the league stage, including a thrashing of Pakistan. But Surya isn’t one to live in the past. “That game doesn’t give us an edge,” he says, his voice steady, eyes sharp. “We start from scratch. Whoever plays well wins.” It’s a mantra that cuts through the hype, grounding his team in the present as they prepare for another high-voltage encounter in Dubai. The India-Pakistan rivalry is more than a game—it’s a spectacle that fills stadiums and fuels endless debates. Yet, Surya’s approach is refreshingly pragmatic. “When the stadium is full, I tell my team it’s time for entertainment. So many people have come to watch,” he grins, leaning forward. “We’re here to play a good brand of cricket and give the fans a show.”
For him, the packed stands aren’t pressure; they’re an invitation to perform. Every match, whether against Pakistan or a minnow, is a chance to learn, win, and repeat. “We enjoyed all three wins equally,” he says, brushing off the notion that beating Pakistan carries extra weight. But how does one tune out the “outside noise” that surrounds this fixture? The chatter — on social media, in restaurants, among friends — is relentless. Surya’s advice is as simple as it is profound: “Close your room, switch off your phone, and sleep.” Easier said than done, he admits with a chuckle. His solution? Selective listening. “Take what’s good for you,” he tells his squad. “Someone might say something that helps on the ground. The rest? Let it go.” It’s a philosophy that keeps India’s dressing room insulated from negativity. As the Super 4s loom, Surya sees opportunity, not pressure. “Everyone’s had time with the bat and ball,” he says, excited to face the tournament’s other heavyweights. Surya was asked if last Sunday’s game against Pakistan was his best ever. He paused for a moment before answering, “My best match? My first for India,” he said softly. “Wearing the jersey is always a proud moment.” He confessed to closing his eyes during the national anthem, lost in gratitude for the opportunity to represent his country. “I thank God every time I step onto the field,” he added.
