Dubai, (UNI) What stood out most after India’s win over Pakistan here tonight was not the ease of the chase or even the birthday cheers for Suryakumar Yadav. It was the manner in which the India captain chose to first speak of the Pahalgam terror attack and dedicate the victory to the armed forces and the bereaved families. That quiet salute set the tone for everything else, and it said a great deal about the man leading this team.
Suryakumar’s words were measured, not theatrical. He reminded everyone that, beyond the runs and wickets, there are moments when cricket can offer a gesture of respect to those who guard the country. In an age where the microphone often tempts players into grand statements, the calm dignity with which he expressed solidarity was refreshing.
Only after that did he allow himself a smile and call the result a “perfect return gift to India.” On his birthday, he had ticked a small personal box — staying unbeaten while finishing a chase with a magnificent 47. It is a mark every top batsman likes against his name, and he achieved it with the serenity of a player who knows how to pace an innings and a responsibility.
Equally telling was the way he played down the hype around the contest. “For us, it’s just another game,” he said, emphasising that India’s preparation doesn’t shift with the opposition. He gave credit to the side that won the Champions Trophy for setting the standard, and you sensed a leader who values continuity and team culture.
There was also a nod to the craft of spin, something close to the heart of every Indian captain who has relied on slow bowlers to dictate the middle overs. His praise for the spinners, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Varun Chakravarthy, who applied the brakes on Pakistan was genuine, the kind of acknowledgement that builds confidence in a dressing room.
The scoreboard will show India’s seven-wicket win, achieved with 25 balls to spare. But the evening may be remembered just as much for a captain’s composure — a blend of empathy, professionalism and understated pride — which offered a fine example of how cricket, at its best, can speak with grace.
SKY high salutes for Pahalgam heroes in birthday win
